As the people of Edo State prepare for the upcoming governorship election scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024, former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged all political actors and stakeholders to prioritize peace and ensure a secure environment during the election process.

In a statement released ahead of the election, Jonathan emphasized the importance of political leaders operating within the boundaries of the law and avoiding any actions that could jeopardize the peace and stability of the state. He noted the significance of Nigeria’s 25 years of uninterrupted civil rule under the Fourth Republic but warned that democracy loses its value when citizens are unable to exercise their political choices freely and fairly.

Jonathan further called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to remain professional and impartial in their roles. He highlighted the moral burden placed on state agencies, particularly INEC and the police, to uphold their constitutional responsibilities as neutral arbiters in the democratic process.

“Security agencies must conduct themselves with utmost neutrality and avoid actions that could compromise the credibility of the electoral process,” Jonathan said. He also stressed that INEC should inspire confidence by ensuring a transparent and unbiased voting process.

The former president warned that any loss of confidence in the electoral process could lead to political disputes, social unrest, voter apathy, and increased polarization—consequences that could undermine both development and the continued consolidation of democracy.

Jonathan