In a significant move towards ensuring a peaceful governorship election in Ondo State, 18 political parties have signed a peace accord, pledging to support a violence-free election and to accept the results if deemed free and fair.
The chairman of the National Peace Committee, General Abdulsalam Abubakar, called on all candidates to uphold democratic principles, avoid vote-buying, and contribute to the nation’s peace.
In a statement on Friday, the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, noted the absence of security incidents to date.
He expressed hope for continued peace, committed to improving election day logistics, and encouraged all parties to honour the peace agreement.
Represented by AIG Sylvester Abiodun, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun confirmed the deployment of over 36,000 police officers across Ondo’s 18 local government areas, supported by other security agencies, totalling 43,157 personnel to maintain security during the elections.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State praised the Peace Committee’s work and vowed to uphold the peace accord, encouraging other parties to do the same for a calm electoral process.
This peace agreement represents a key step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to foster violence-free elections, building on past successes in reducing electoral tensions.