At least eighteen political parties that will compete in Saturday’s governorship election in Imo have committed to refraining from violence before to, during, and following the contest.
The National Peace Committee (NPC) reportedly assisted in facilitating the peace agreement, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd.), the former head of state and chairman of the committee, urged the people of Imo to vote in large numbers to choose the governor they wanted.
In a videotaped statement shown at the event, Abubakar stated that if elected officials “do the rubbish they do in governance,” the public would have no right to complain.
“So, it is right for every voter to come out to ensure that they vote for the candidate of their choice so that we get the right people to represent us,” he said.
“Because, in the long run, it is you, the youth, or the people who would have been used to cause pain and sorrow in society,” he added, urging young people to refrain from leading the charge in violence during elections.
In addition to cautioning security agencies against intimidating voters, Abubakar urged INEC and its representatives to be sincere in holding credible and free elections throughout the state.
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the chairman of INEC, also praised NPC for continuing to support the advancement of democratic and peaceful elections in Nigeria.
In order for the peace pact to be successful, Yakubu asked candidates, political parties, and security agencies for their support.
“I will like to reaffirm the commission’s commitment to only credible and transparent elections.
“The commission has done everything possible to ensure that Saturday’s elections are credible.
“It is not enough to sign the peace accord; what is important is to apply its letters and spirit,” the INEC boss said.
According to NAN, Mr. Kenneth Ukeagu, the commission’s National Commissioner for the South-East, represented Yakubu.
In an address, DIG Frank Mba on behalf of Inspector-General of Police Mr. Kayode Egbetokun praised the NPC for organizing and instituting the peace agreement.
Considering the history of election-related violence, Egbetokun characterized the signing of the peace deal as a crucial component of the electoral process.
