Jonathan Warns Governors, Political Elites Against Using Security Forces to Intimidate Opponents
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
By Jude Ogboo Emeka
ABUJA — Former President Goodluck Jonathan has cautioned state governors and political leaders against using state-backed security agencies to intimidate political opponents or influence the outcome of elections.
Jonathan gave the warning while speaking at a recent stakeholder forum, where he stressed the need for political actors to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes and allow voters to make their choices without fear, coercion or harassment.
The former president said the deployment or over-mobilisation of security personnel for political purposes could undermine public confidence in elections and weaken democratic institutions.
According to him, political contests should be conducted within the boundaries of the law, with candidates and their supporters allowed to campaign and participate in electoral activities without intimidation.
Jonathan’s position comes amid continuing concerns over the role of security agencies during elections, particularly allegations that government officials sometimes deploy state resources and enforcement bodies against political opponents.
The former president warned that using official institutions to suppress opposition could create tension and deepen political divisions, stressing that democracy depends on respect for citizens’ rights and the independence of institutions.
He urged governors and other political leaders to exercise restraint during election periods and avoid actions capable of creating an atmosphere of fear among voters.
Jonathan also called on political elites to prioritise peace and national stability over partisan interests, maintaining that political competition should not be allowed to threaten the country’s democratic development.
He emphasised the importance of respecting institutional boundaries and ensuring that security agencies perform their constitutional responsibilities without being turned into instruments for settling political scores.
The former president’s comments highlight the broader debate over electoral security in Nigeria, where the presence and conduct of security personnel can significantly affect voters’ confidence and participation.
Security agencies are routinely deployed during elections to maintain law and order, protect electoral officials and materials, and prevent violence. However, concerns have frequently been raised by political parties, civil society organisations and election observers over alleged selective deployment, intimidation and interference.
Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015, has remained active in discussions on democracy, elections and peaceful political transitions since leaving office. His administration oversaw the 2015 presidential election, which resulted in his defeat and subsequent peaceful transfer of power to Muhammadu Buhari.
That transition was widely regarded as an important moment in Nigeria’s democratic history and strengthened Jonathan’s international reputation for accepting electoral defeat.
Against this background, his latest appeal for restraint reflects his longstanding emphasis on peaceful elections and respect for the electorate’s decision.
He urged political actors to recognise that the ultimate authority in a democracy rests with the people and that electoral victories should be secured through legitimate political engagement rather than intimidation or the misuse of government institutions.
Jonathan further called on citizens, political parties and public officials to contribute to an electoral environment where voters can freely exercise their franchise.
As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, concerns over political violence, the conduct of security agencies and the protection of electoral freedoms are expected to remain central issues in the national conversation.
The former president’s warning therefore adds to growing calls for political leaders to place national stability and democratic credibility above narrow partisan interests.
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