Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed serious concerns regarding the influence of external political leaders in the recent governorship election in Osun State. In a statement released on Tuesday, Jonathan criticized the involvement of numerous governors and high-ranking officials from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the electoral process, highlighting the potential implications for the integrity of democratic practices in Nigeria.

Reports indicated that approximately 16 governors from the APC were present in Osun State, actively campaigning for the party's candidate ahead of the election. Notably, Senate President Godswill Akpabio was among the prominent figures who visited the state just days before the polls. Jonathan's remarks come in light of these developments, which he believes signify a troubling trend in political conduct.

In his statement, Jonathan emphasized that while the electoral process itself was commendable, the surrounding circumstances raised significant concerns. He pointed out that the increasing tendency for serving governors and influential political figures, accompanied by extensive security details and aides, to descend upon states conducting elections is alarming. "This is a practice that demands national attention," he stated, urging for a reevaluation of such political behaviors.

Jonathan further noted that similar patterns of external interference were observed during previous off-cycle elections in Ekiti and Ondo States, describing these occurrences as unusual and detrimental to the democratic process. He warned that allowing such practices to become normalized could undermine the very foundations of democracy in Nigeria.

The former president's call for national attention on this issue underscores the need for a critical examination of the electoral landscape in Nigeria, particularly concerning the influence of powerful political figures from outside the states where elections are held. As the political climate continues to evolve, Jonathan's comments serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and ensuring that local elections remain free from undue external pressures.