Jonathan Warns Against Political Mobilization in Elections

Former President Goodluck Jonathan cautioned serving governors, senior political office holders, and party leaders against transforming off-cycle elections into platforms for excessive political mobilization. He expressed these concerns on Tuesday while reflecting on the August 15 Osun State governorship election, commending the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, political parties, and the citizens of Osun for the peaceful election.

Jonathan noted that the presence of influential political figures from outside states, accompanied by large entourages, could instill fear among voters and political opponents. He recalled similar occurrences during the 2013 Anambra and 2014 Ekiti governorship elections, where he had ordered political leaders to vacate the states to maintain order.

Jonathan warned that if this trend continues unchecked, it could threaten Nigeria's fragile democracy and have serious long-term implications for democratic stability, while acknowledging that political parties have the right to campaign and mobilize supporters.