Osun Decides: Jonathan Lauds INEC, Security Agencies, Raises Concern Over Governors’ Off-Cycle Elections Mobilisation

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has commended INEC, security agencies, political parties and the people of Osun State for the peaceful conduct of the recent governorship election.

Jonathan, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said the outcome showed Nigeria can conduct elections that strengthen confidence in democracy.

However, he raised concern over the growing trend of governors, senior officials and party leaders converging on states during off-cycle elections with large entourages and security details.

He said the conduct seen in Osun, Ekiti and Ondo was unusual and should not become normal in a democracy.

Jonathan recalled similar situations in the 2013 Anambra and 2014 Ekiti elections, saying he had ordered such officials to leave the states at the time.

He warned that the trend, if unchecked, could threaten democratic stability.

While acknowledging the right of parties to campaign, he said excessive mobilisation by top officials could create intimidation and undue pressure.

Jonathan questioned whether such practices align with free and fair elections, warning it could escalate political tensions nationwide.

The former president stressed the issue should be seen as a national concern, not a partisan one.

He called on the National Peace Committee to convene stakeholders, including INEC, security agencies, political parties, the National Assembly, NBA, governors, civil society and the media, to set standards for peaceful elections.

Jonathan said early dialogue would help prevent abnormal practices from becoming the norm in future elections.