Governors Have Only One Vote, Can't Dictate Who People Vote For – Bishop Onaiyekan Cautions Soludo, Others

ABUJA, NIGERIA — Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, has issued a stern warning to Nigerian state governors regarding political intimidation and voters' rights ahead of upcoming elections.

​Speaking on the dynamics of political leadership and democratic freedom in Nigeria, the outspoken cleric specifically highlighted Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, among other political leaders, advising them against acting as though they own or control the electorate's choices.

​Key Points from Cardinal Onaiyekan's Remarks:

​Equal Voting Power: Onaiyekan stressed the fundamental democratic principle of equality at the polls. He emphasized that regardless of a governor's political influence, resources, or executive status, a governor has only one vote—the exact same voting power as any ordinary citizen.

​Respect for the Electorate: The cleric cautioned incumbent leaders against attempting to enforce block-voting or threatening citizens to vote for specific candidates or parties. He noted that democracy demands respect for individual conscience and free choice.

​Address to Governor Soludo: Directing part of his message toward Anambra State's governor ahead of future political contests, Onaiyekan urged Soludo and other regional leaders to focus on governance and delivering democratic dividends rather than trying to dictate the political direction of the state's residents.

​Call for Free and Fair Elections: The Cardinal reiterated his long-standing stance on electoral integrity, urging electoral bodies, political parties, and security agencies to ensure that every voter can perform their civic duty without fear, coercion, or undue influence.

​Onaiyekan concluded by reminding politicians that genuine authority comes from the free mandate of the people, not through political muscle-flexing or electoral manipulation.