Tension As Jonathan Sends Strong Message to INEC Ahead of Edo Governorship Election, Warns Against Rigging
As the Edo State governorship election approaches this Saturday, former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has issued a clarion call for peace and fairness, urging the institutions overseeing the electoral process to ensure a level playing field for all political parties.
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In a statement released on Thursday by his media adviser, Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan emphasized the need for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to rise to their constitutional duties and serve as impartial arbiters during the election.
He underscored that the credibility of the electoral process is crucial for the sustainability of Nigeria’s democracy.
“The upcoming election places a moral burden on state agencies, especially the police and INEC, to act independently and impartially,” Jonathan stated, stressing the importance of ensuring peaceful, credible, and transparent elections.
He warned against any form of manipulation, noting that compromised elections could lead to political unrest, voter apathy, and increased divisions within the state.
Jonathan urged politicians to act within the law and avoid actions that could destabilize Edo State. He reflected on Nigeria’s 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in the Fourth Republic, cautioning that this democratic milestone would lose its significance if voters are unable to freely exercise their political choices.
The former president also called on INEC to live up to its role as an unbiased umpire, inspiring trust through a transparent voting process.
“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 that could undermine development and democratic consolidation,” Jonathan added.
Jonathan’s message serves as a timely reminder to all stakeholders of the critical role they play in ensuring that democracy prevails and that the people of Edo State are given the opportunity to elect leaders in a peaceful and fair environment.
The Edo State governorship election, scheduled for September 21, 2024, is a significant moment for the state and the nation at large, as the eyes of the country remain fixed on the transparency and credibility of the election process.