As tension mounts in Edo State ahead of the crucial governorship election, former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has emerged as a voice of reason, calling for peace and fairness in the electoral process. In a powerful statement released on Thursday, Jonathan emphasized the critical role of state institutions in ensuring a level playing field for all candidates, underscoring the importance of this election for Nigeria’s democratic future.
Speaking from his office in Abuja, Dr. Jonathan’s words carried the weight of his experience as both a former president and a key figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Our democracy is at a critical juncture,” he stated, his voice filled with concern. The Edo election is not just about choosing a governor; it’s about reaffirming our commitment to the democratic process.
The former president’s statement, released through his media adviser Ikechukwu Eze, touched on several key themes:
– The moral responsibility of state agencies, particularly the police and INEC
– The need for transparency and neutrality in the electoral process
– The potential consequences of a compromised election.
Jonathan placed particular emphasis on the roles of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigeria Police Force. “These institutions are the bedrock of our electoral system,” he explained. Their actions in the coming days will either strengthen or weaken public faith in our democracy.
The former president’s words resonated with many Edo residents. Mary Osagie, a schoolteacher in Benin City, shared her perspective: “We’re tired of elections marred by violence and manipulation. If INEC and the police do their jobs properly, maybe this time will be different.
Jonathan’s call for INEC to act as an “unbiased umpire” speaks to longstanding concerns about electoral integrity in Nigeria. “There is no doubt that loss of confidence in an election encourages political disputes, social unrest, voter apathy, increased polarization and other far-reaching consequences,” he warned.
As Nigeria marks 25 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, the Edo election takes on added significance. Jonathan highlighted this milestone, noting, “It is encouraging that civil rule has endured in the Fourth Republic for 25 years, but we should remind our people that democracy loses its value when citizens cannot exercise their political choices in a free and fair atmosphere.”
This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Amina Suleiman, a political scientist at the University of Benin. “Each election is a test of our democratic institutions,” she explained. The Edo governorship race will show us how far we’ve come – or how far we still have to go.
Jonathan’s appeal extended to the candidates and their supporters. “Politicians must pursue their interests within the confines of the law and refrain from activities that could undermine the peace and stability of the state,” he insisted.
This call for restraint comes amid reports of rising tensions in some parts of Edo State. Local civil society groups have documented several incidents of pre-election violence and intimidation.
Osaro Osakpamwan, a community leader in Egor Local Government Area, shared his concerns: “We’ve seen too many elections turn violent. Our young people are being used as tools by politicians. We need this violence to stop so we can have a real choice on election day.”
As the clock ticks down to Election Day on Saturday, September 21, 2024, Jonathan outlined several key factors for a successful poll:
1. Professional and neutral conduct by security agencies
2. Transparent voting process managed by INEC
3. Peaceful behavior from political actors and their supporters
4. Active and informed participation by citizens
“For democracy to endure,” Jonathan emphasized, “our leadership recruitment process must be devoid of all forms of manipulation and state institutions must guarantee peaceful, credible and transparent elections.”
While the immediate focus is on Edo, the implications of this election extend far beyond the state’s borders. Nigeria’s democratic reputation, both domestically and internationally, hangs in the balance.
International observer James Thompson, from the European Centre for Electoral Support, offered his perspective: “How Nigeria conducts this election will send a strong signal about the health of its democracy. The world is watching, and the stakes are high.”
As Edo State prepares for this pivotal election, Jonathan’s words serve as both a rallying cry and a warning. The choices made by electoral officials, security forces, politicians, and voters in the coming days will shape not just the future of Edo State, but potentially the trajectory of Nigeria’s democratic journey.
The former president’s closing statement encapsulated the gravity of the moment: “That way, citizens will be able to elect leaders of their choice who they will entrust with the legitimacy to deliver good governance, peace and prosperity.
As the sun sets over Benin City on the eve of the election, the hopes of millions rest on the possibility of a free, fair, and peaceful process. The eyes of the nation – and indeed, the world – are fixed on Edo State, waiting to see if Nigeria can rise to this democratic challenge.
