Former President Goodluck Jonathan has emphasized that independent electoral commissions and neutral security agencies are crucial for conducting credible elections in West Africa.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday at a two-day Reflection Conference on Democratic Elections in West Africa, Jonathan stressed the need to strengthen democratic processes across the region.
The event, themed “Strengthening Democratic Processes in West Africa: Lessons from 2024 Elections and Prospects for Future Elections,” brought together stakeholders to assess past elections and explore ways to improve future ones.
He noted that the credibility of an election largely depends on two institutions: the electoral commission and security agencies.
“The stability of democracy is directly tied to the efficiency and impartiality of these institutions. Strengthening their independence and insulating them from political influence is essential,” Jonathan said.
He also advocated for periodic reviews of electoral laws to address emerging challenges and incorporate best practices.
Additionally, he highlighted the importance of adopting technology in electoral processes, stating that while human interference sometimes disrupts its implementation, automation improves transparency, efficiency, and public trust.
Beyond institutional reforms, Jonathan urged greater political tolerance and inclusivity, emphasizing the need to address socio-economic issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate change, which contribute to political instability.
“For democracy to thrive, political leaders and citizens must commit to governance built on inclusion, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence,” he stated.
Reflecting on elections held across West Africa in 2023 and 2024, Jonathan acknowledged some progress but warned of persistent threats to democratic credibility.
“By learning from our past experiences and working collectively, we can ensure that elections in West Africa truly reflect the people’s will and strengthen democratic governance,” he added.
He also encouraged governments and civil society organizations to actively engage young people in politics, fostering greater awareness and commitment to electoral integrity.
In a keynote address titled “Democratic Elections in West Africa: Challenges and Prospects,” former INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega expressed concerns about the state of democracy in Africa.
He criticized some elected officials for prioritizing personal and political interests over public welfare, reducing elections to mere formalities that maintain incumbents in power.
“Rather than protecting the democratic freedoms expected in a functional system, some leaders have instead manipulated elections to serve their own interests,” Jega observed.
He emphasized the role of civil society organizations in advocating electoral reforms and strengthening democratic institutions.
Additionally, he called on ECOWAS and national governments to uphold democratic principles and resist actions that could undermine governance.
EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, acknowledged progress in democratic practices within the region but pointed out that new challenges have emerged, requiring collective action to safeguard electoral integrity.
He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting free and fair elections in West Africa.
Yiaga Africa’s Executive Director, Samson Itodo, also contributed to the discussions, stressing that elections should not be viewed as a single-day event but as part of an ongoing democratic process that demands continuous participation, accountability, and reform.
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