..Calls on International Community to Monitor Nigeria’s Electoral Process

The Joint Action Council for Democratic Governance (JACODEG) has issued a strong appeal to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to safeguard his reputation as a democrat by preventing his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), from undermining democratic processes in the upcoming Ondo State Governorship Election.

In a statement released in Akure on Friday, JACODEG expressed concern over the APC’s alleged use of violence and intimidation tactics against opposition parties ahead of the election slated for Saturday, November 16.

According to the Executive Director of JACODEG, Mr. Dennis Okparaocha, preliminary investigations had revealed that thugs had been reportedly brought in from Lagos to intimidate opposition parties. These thugs have allegedly been involved in violent attacks on innocent residents and opposition members, particularly in areas like Idanre, destroying campaign posters around.

JACODEG called on the European Union and other international bodies to closely monitor the activities of the APC during the Ondo Governorship Election, emphasizing the importance of this oversight in shaping future relations with the Tinubu-led Federal Government.


Additionally, there are widespread reports of plans to heavily monetize the electoral process, reminiscent of the infamous ‘Dibo ko sebe’ vote-buying tactics introduced in Ondo State in 2016.

“While President Tinubu has previously been viewed as a champion of democracy, his passive stance towards similar issues witnessed in the recent Edo State election raises concerns about his commitment to democratic principles. We therefore urge the President to take decisive action and rein in his party’s excesses in Ondo to prevent further damage to Nigeria’s democracy”.

“We also appeal to international observers and organizations that advocate for democratic governance to keep a close watch on the Ondo Governorship Election, as their assessment of this process may inform their future engagement with the APC-led Federal Government”.