By Capital Watch Media
Seventeen political parties and their governorship candidates in Ondo State have signed a peace accord ahead of the gubernatorial election set for next Saturday.
The event, held in Akure, was organized by the National Peace Accord Committee, led by former military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar.
General Abubakar emphasized that the peace accord aims to ensure a credible and peaceful electoral process, urging candidates and their parties to uphold the principles of peace and democracy. “The signing of this peace accord commits gubernatorial candidates and party leaders to support a peaceful and credible election,” he said.
Addressing party leaders and candidates, Abubakar called on them to accept the results of the election if they are deemed free, fair, and credible, and to pursue any grievances through lawful and peaceful means. “It is our hope that the Ondo election sets a positive example for other off-cycle elections in the country,” he added.
General Abubakar also commended INEC for its preparations and praised the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for their efforts to maintain peace in Ondo State. He encouraged the security personnel to remain vigilant in averting any threats of violence, as the election draws near.
In his remarks, INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu expressed appreciation for the Peace Accord Committee’s role in promoting peaceful elections across Nigeria. He noted that based on the success of similar accords, the National Peace Committee had expanded the signing of peace agreements to include governorship elections, given the heightened tensions surrounding these races.
Yakubu confirmed that there have been no major incidents reported in Ondo, and he shared confidence that the proactive measures taken by INEC, security agencies, traditional leaders, and civil society organizations would contribute to a peaceful election. He assured the public that INEC has addressed logistical challenges, including special arrangements for remote and riverine areas in Ondo State.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reassured the public of a neutral and vigilant security presence during the election, ensuring a level playing field for all parties and candidates.
Ondo State Governor and All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, also pledged to uphold the peace accord. He assured the committee of the safety of all stakeholders and expressed hope that the atmosphere of peace would be sustained before, during, and after the elections.
The peace accord signing ceremony concluded with a call for all political actors to respect the principles of democracy and sportsmanship, reinforcing the commitment to a free, fair, and peaceful election in Ondo State.
