Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to ensure a level playing field in the forthcoming Edo State governorship election, scheduled for September 21, 2024.
Jonathan made the call in a statement on Thursday, emphasising the need for peace before, during, and after the polls.
The former president stressed the importance of free and fair elections, calling on political actors and stakeholders to prioritise the peace and security of Edo State, in line with efforts to deepen Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement issued by his media adviser, Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan highlighted the moral responsibility of state institutions, particularly INEC and the police, to uphold their constitutional roles as impartial arbiters in the democratic process.
He emphasised that for democracy to thrive, elections must be free from manipulation, and state agencies must guarantee peaceful, credible, and transparent polls.
Jonathan also urged INEC to fulfil its role as an unbiased umpire and ensure a voting process that inspires confidence in all participants.
“There is no doubt that the loss of confidence in an election encourages political disputes, social unrest, voter apathy, increased polarisation, and other far-reaching consequences that could undermine development and democratic consolidation,” Jonathan warned.
He continued, “As citizens of voting age in Edo State go to the polls for the governorship election on Saturday, September 21, 2024, I call on all political actors and stakeholders to work towards deepening the nation’s democracy by prioritising peace and security in the state.
“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.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 25 years of uninterrupted civil rule under the Fourth Republic, Jonathan noted that the value of democracy diminishes when citizens are unable to exercise their political choices in a free and fair environment.
He concluded by calling on all stakeholders to work towards a peaceful election that would strengthen democratic practices in the country.
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