Politics
Jonathan Urges INEC and Security to Ensure Free and Fair Edo Elections
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to ensure a level playing field for all candidates in the upcoming Edo State governorship election, scheduled for September 21, 2024.
In a statement released on Thursday, Jonathan called for peace before, during, and after the election, emphasizing the importance of upholding the democratic process with fairness and impartiality.
Jonathan appealed to political actors and stakeholders to prioritize the peace and security of Edo State, stressing that a peaceful election is essential for deepening the nation’s democracy.
He noted that the integrity of the electoral process depends heavily on the conduct of state institutions, particularly INEC and the security forces, and urged them to take their constitutional duties seriously as neutral arbiters in the democratic process.
In the statement, issued by his media adviser Ikechukwu Eze, the former president highlighted the moral obligation of these agencies to ensure elections are free from manipulation and violence.
He emphasized that for democracy to thrive, it is crucial that the election process remains peaceful, credible, and transparent, with state institutions playing a key role in guaranteeing fairness.
Jonathan also urged INEC to fulfill its role as an unbiased umpire, inspiring trust among all participants by conducting a transparent and trustworthy voting process.
He warned that a lack of confidence in the electoral system could lead to political disputes, social unrest, voter apathy, and heightened polarization—consequences that could hinder both the state’s development and the consolidation of democracy.
“As the people of Edo State prepare to cast their votes on September 21, 2024, I call on all political actors to operate within the bounds of the law and avoid actions that could destabilize the peace and security of the state,” Jonathan said.
He encouraged politicians to pursue their ambitions through lawful means, reminding them that democracy is only meaningful when citizens can freely exercise their political choices without fear or interference.
Jonathan also reflected on the 25 years of continuous civil rule in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, noting that while the endurance of democracy is commendable, it loses its value if citizens cannot participate in elections that are truly free and fair.
He emphasized that the legitimacy of the democratic system relies on the ability of citizens to make their political decisions in a secure and impartial environment.
First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has shared that she has forgiven those who betrayed her husband during the 2023 general elections.
She revealed this as she marked a new age, reflecting on what the future holds. She emphasized that she holds no grudge against anyone.
“I do not have anything against anyone. The question is how I stopped feeling the betrayal? I knew the grace factor was evident, and the Holy Spirit continually comforted me. I chose never to avenge myself, understanding that it is God’s prerogative. Mine is to thank Him for fighting for us. If God decides to fight your battles and you have won, is there anything else that God missed and you wanted to fix? Nothing. So, let it go.”
Paul Ibe, spokesperson to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of laying the groundwork to manipulate the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a YouTube interview, Ibe alleged that the ruling party, led by President Bola Tinubu, has run out of achievements to show after more than two years in office. This has resorted to silencing opposition voices and critical institutions.
According to him, APC is working to weaken independent media, civil society groups, and political opponents. They insists that the clampdown is part of a wider strategy to retain power.
“They have nothing to offer after two years of holding on to the mandate,” Ibe said. “The only way left for them is to start preparing to rig, and the process is already in motion.”
Additionally, he went on to describe Nigeria’s current political climate as a drift into dictatorship, recalling the heavy price paid by activists who fought for democracy in the past.
“The democracy we’ve had since 1999 came at a huge sacrifice. Many lives were lost in the struggle,” he said. “Those heroes would be turning in their graves to see what is happening now. People like Sowore are being harassed and intimidated, and that shows where we are heading.”
Nigerian singer, Charly Boy, has spoken on the resumption of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as she resumed her duties in the National Assembly after her suspension.
The singer took to social media to show his support for the senator, praising her while warning others, including Akpabio, that she is not someone to be easily dealt with.
He wrote “Una don hear say Senator Natasha don enter National Assembly? You can’t mess with an Alpha woman like that. It seems like they have exhausted their lies; the only available option is to unseal or face international sanctions. Akpabio, be careful next time, no be all women be ntanta.”
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