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Ghana, Liberia, Senegal’s Elections Better Than Nigeria’s – Jonathan
…. Says technology brought more crises
…INEC’s independence still a problem – Jega
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has criticised the role of electoral bodies and the judiciary in shaping the democratic process in West Africa.
Speaking at a conference in Abuja on Tuesday, Jonathan argued that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary often contribute to electoral shortcomings in Nigeria and the wider region.
The conference, organised by Yiaga Africa, focused on democratic elections in West Africa.
Jonathan insisted that electoral reforms in Nigeria must be comprehensive to address systemic flaws affecting both national and subnational polls.
“If elections must be done properly, then the judiciary must always play their role,” Jonathan said.
“A corrupt environment encourages corruption. If INEC and the judiciary do not act decisively, politicians will exploit the system to win by any means necessary.”
Jonathan acknowledged that while some West African nations have held credible elections, others have struggled with violence, allegations of fraud, and institutional weaknesses.
He cited Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, where the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the Results Viewing Portal (IReV) aimed to improve transparency.
However, logistical failures, violence, and technical glitches undermined public confidence.
Similarly, Sierra Leone’s 2023 elections, which incorporated biometric voter registration, were overshadowed by accusations of voter intimidation and ethnic tensions.
By contrast, Ghana’s general elections—despite limited use of technology—were deemed peaceful and transparent, thanks to strong electoral and security institutions.
Liberia also witnessed a smooth transition of power, with incumbent President George Weah conceding defeat to opposition candidate Joseph Boakai.
Senegal, despite pre-election tensions and opposition arrests, conducted a largely peaceful poll that resulted in the election of Bassirou Diomaye Faye.
Jonathan noted that technology can enhance electoral credibility but is not a cure-all.
He pointed out that while biometric systems and real-time results transmission improved transparency in some cases, they also triggered disputes in others, such as Nigeria and Sierra Leone.
“This development underscores the place of the human element in deepening democracy,” he said.
“Technology, no matter how sophisticated, cannot ensure credible elections without the commitment of authorities and citizens to do the right thing.”
He stressed that independent electoral commissions and impartial security forces are essential for credible elections.
“The success or failure of any election lies in the hands of two critical agencies: the electoral management body and the police,” he added.
Former INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, also spoke at the conference, questioning the independence of Nigeria’s electoral commission.
He warned that electoral management bodies in West Africa face growing challenges, including political interference, weak legal frameworks, and security threats.
Jega highlighted identity politics as a major problem in West African democracies, contributing to voter manipulation and political instability. He linked the rise of coups in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger to public disillusionment with civilian governance.
“The struggle for power among reckless elites, lacking consensus and self-interest, has undermined democracy in the region,” Jega said.
“If these challenges are not addressed, we may see further democratic backsliding.”
As Christians around the world mark Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called for peace and unity in the country.
Extending warm greetings to all the faithful and people of goodwill across the nation on Palm Sunday, CAN said the sacred occasion invites citizens to reflect deeply on the life and mission of Jesus Christ, whose message of peace, humility, and sacrificial love remains as urgent today as it was over two thousand years ago.
This was contained in a statement released by the Christian body on Sunday, and signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh.
The umbrella body for Christians in Nigeria also strongly condemned the recent wave of brutal killings in Plateau State, particularly the April 4, 2025 attacks that claimed dozens of innocent lives in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas.
It added that the acts of violence represent not only a gross violation of human dignity and the sanctity of life but also a serious threat to our national unity and peace.
CAN called on the security agencies to act swiftly and decisively in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The statement read in part, “Palm Sunday commemorates the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, where He was welcomed with palm branches and shouts of “Hosanna!”—a powerful symbol of peace, humility, and hope.
“This moment, recorded in the Gospels (Matthew 21:1–11, Mark 11:1–11, Luke 19:28–44, and John 12:12–19), offers enduring lessons for our nation as we navigate these uncertain and challenging times. These lessons are especially pertinent as we are once again confronted with a painful reminder of the fragility of peace in our land.
“With deep sorrow, CAN strongly condemns the recent wave of brutal killings in Plateau State, particularly the attacks of 4 April 2025, which claimed the lives of dozens of innocent citizens in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas. These senseless acts of violence represent not only a gross violation of human dignity and the sanctity of life but also a serious threat to our national unity and peace.
“We call on the security agencies to act swiftly and decisively in bringing the perpetrators to justice. We also urge the government—at all levels—to intensify its efforts to secure all communities and prevent further bloodshed. The continued loss of lives in such tragic circumstances is simply unacceptable.
“We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families and the people of Plateau State. May God grant comfort to the grieving, healing to the wounded, and peace to every troubled heart. In times like these, we are reminded that true leadership is most vital when lives are at risk and communities are in distress.
“In this critical moment, we call on our leaders to rise to the occasion with humility and a clear sense of purpose. Jesus’ choice to enter Jerusalem on a donkey—symbolising peace and servanthood—remains a timeless example. Our leaders must embrace the principles of servant leadership, placing the welfare of the people above personal or political interests. Amidst insecurity, economic hardship, and displacement, let their actions be marked by compassion, justice, and a steadfast commitment to national healing.
“In the same spirit, we appeal to all Nigerians—regardless of ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation—to rise above division and embrace our shared identity as one people under God. Just as the diverse crowds in Jerusalem were united in hope, so too must we come together with a common purpose: to heal our land and build a future grounded in mutual respect, compassion, and solidarity.
“Palm Sunday reminds us that even in times of trial, there is hope. The journey to national renewal begins with each of us. Let us be mindful of our words and actions, choosing to be peacemakers in our homes, communities, and workplaces. Through a shared commitment to truth and justice, we can overcome the pain of the present and help shape a Nigeria where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.
“As we lift our palm branches today, let them serve not only as symbols of worship but as signs of our collective resolve to work for a peaceful and united Nigeria. May God grant us wisdom, courage, and grace in these trying times. We pray for our leaders, that they may be guided by divine insight; for our people, that they may draw strength from unity; and for our nation, that peace may reign in every corner.
“God bless you all, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
Billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, has joined other prominent Nigerians in paying tribute to late Super Eagles legendary former captain and coach, Christian Chukwu, who died on Saturday.
The Nigerian football icon, nicknamed ‘Chairman’ for his imposing presence and the authority he exuded just in defence, died at 74, throwing family, friends, and the entire nation into mourning.
In a tribute to the former centre defender posted on his social media pages on Sunday, Otedola said that Chukwu creatively used the game of football as a unifying force for us as individuals and the nation in general.
“The sudden passing of the legendary Christian Chukwu, former captain and head coach of the Super Eagles, has come as a rude shock to me. As one of Nigeria’s Patriots, Christian Chukwu creatively used the game of football as a unifying force for us as individuals and the nation in general.
“His footballing career as the captain and subsequently coach of the national team remains legendary and fully etched in the annals of our national history,” the statement said.
The former national team and Enugu Rangers captain was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2019, and Otedola stepped in to offer financial support for his medical treatment in the United Kingdom.
The Executive Chairman of Geregu Power PLC recalled that his intervention in 2019 saw Chukwu saw through a very challenging time and gave him a new lease of life.
He condoled the family of the late legendary footballer and his fans all over the world.
“Back in 2019, when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer that affected his legs, I stepped in with the necessary support so as to enable him receive comprehensive care and medical treatment in the United Kingdom.
“Thankfully, that intervention and opportunity saw him through a very challenging time and gave him a new lease of life. My condolences go out to his entire family and to his fans all over the world. May you all find comfort during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.”
Chukwu captained Nigeria to their first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) trophy in 1980 and was also a former coach of the side between 2002 and 2005. He led the Super Eagles to a third-place finish at the 2004 edition of the continental competition in Tunisia.
He devoted his club career to Enugu Rangers, where he won multiple national titles and led the club to continental glory with their 1977 African Cup Winners’ Cup triumph.
Femi Falana, the human rights lawyer, has asked Nigerian youths to reclaim the country and redefine its future.
Falana spoke during the sixth annual youth leadership conference at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) on Saturday.
The senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN) said the country has changed for the worse, and youths are suffering, hence the need for them to rise up.
“You will have to challenge those who are in power when you have access to them, because some of them in power today belong to our generation,” NAN quoted Falana as saying.
“We didn’t suffer what you are going through. We lived a life of dignity.
“My generation had dreams, genuine dreams, about this country becoming one of the best in the world, because we have abundant human and natural resources that should make us a leading country in the world. But what has happened?
“Your generation has a duty to reclaim the country, and please, when you are going to listen to songs in ceremonies of this nature, please try and listen to some of the great African musicians.”
The human rights lawyer said listening to such music would inspire the youths to fight for justice.
“You must also listen and be inspired to fight for justice in our country,” he said.
“You are often told that our country is poor. Quote me, ours is not poor. We suffer from material poverty because there is poverty of ideas in our country.
“They tell you you are leaders of tomorrow. You must be leaders of today first, so you must take back what is left.”