……..political parties sign peace accord

By Precious Oluwole

As the Ondo State gubernatorial election draws near, the National Peace Committee (NPC) has urged all political candidates to accept the outcome and resultsm of the election with fate, as long as it is free, fair and credible.

The Chairman, National Peace Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar gave this advise on Friday during the accord-signing ceremony held at the Dome in Akure.

Leaders and candidates from all political parties including APC, ADC, SDP, NNPP, PDP, among others were in attendance to sign the peace accord.

In his welcome address, the Chairman, National Peace Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, urged the candidates to embrace peace and avoid violence.

He commended Ondo State INEC for the good works done so far, encouraging them to continuously discharge their responsibilities in ensuring that eligible voters exercise their franchise peacefully Commended the Governor and the security agencies for keeping the State peaceful.

He commended Governor Aiyedatiwa and the security agencies for making the State a peaceful one for the people to dwell, urging the people to desist from selling their votes and vote wholeheartedly for their preferred candidates.

“All politicians who will signed the peace accord to shun violence, intimidation and demonstrate the spirit of sportsmanship as an example of good leadership. Party leaders should ensure that they play a critical role in encouraging their supporters refrain from making a statement that will incite violence”.

In his goodwill message, the INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, appreciated the Inter-party Advisory Council, (IPAC) for their timely efforts in bringing candidates together for a peaceful election.

According to him, this is the second peace accord to be signed by candidates of each political parties and candidates in Ondo State, adding that the first was on 6th of November, 2020.

“I assure you that measures has been taken to address election challenges. Expect to see a remarkable election, voters will see improvement during this election.

“I appeal to all political parties and candidates that your signatures on the peace accord document alone will not guarantee, it’s not an automatic self actualizing document, your commitment and implementation is crucial. You should commit yourself to implementation and pass the message to your supporters”.

Also speaking, the Inspector General of the Nigeria Police Force, Kayode Egbetokun who was represented by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Abiodun Alabi outlined that each polling unit would be secured by a minimum of five officers, and that the force would deploy helicopters, operational vehicles, and ambulances starting November 11.

He also announced movement restrictions on Election Day, ensuring police stations and barracks would be fortified to handle any potential post-election unrest.

Alabi reminded candidates of the law prohibiting canvassing on Election Day, urging them to prioritise the well-being of citizens and uphold democratic principles above personal or party interests.

Ondo State Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Mr Olaoluwa Adesanya commended INEC’s dedication to a credible process and appealed to journalists for responsible and factual reporting.

“The role of journalists is crucial in this process, I appeal to our media professionals to focus on factual reporting and avoid spreading unverified information. In these times, rumour-mongering can inflame tensions and jeopardise the peace we are striving to maintain. Journalists must uphold their duty to inform accurately and responsibly.”

In his remarks, Governor Aiyedatiwa, appreciated the National Peace Committee under the leadership of Abdulsalami Abubakar, for the sacrifices they have been making in ensuring a peaceful and credible election since the committee has been set up.

He noted that Ondo State has been a peaceful State and can be sustained, adding that all stakeholders has been cooperating with the government.

Speaking on behalf of other candidates, the Governor noted that election will come and go, but the state will remain. “Let us all maintain the relative peace that we enjoy and stick to the rules of the game. This is not just a commitment to today but a pledge to our future”.

The NPC convener, Bishop Matthew Kukah praised organisers and lauded attendees’ commitment to a peaceful election.

He voiced hope that the cooperation displayed would strengthen democratic values across the state.

Kukah also reminded attendees of the significant impact peace and goodwill have on national stability and progress.

With the peace accord signed, the participating parties and their candidates reinforced their collective pledge to foster a peaceful democratic process for the people of Ondo State.

Also in attendance were; Religious leaders, traditional rulers, heads of security agencies, political party leaders, among others.