November 08, (THEWILL) – In a bid to ensure a peaceful election process in Ondo State, eighteen political parties, including the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party, signed a peace accord on Friday, ahead of the November 16 governorship election.
The peace agreement, initiated by the National Peace Accord Committee under former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar and Convener Bishop Mathew Kukah, was signed at an event in Akure, the Ondo State capital.
Speaking at the ceremony, Abubakar urged all candidates and their parties to avoid actions that could lead to political unrest.
“We call on all stakeholders to ensure that peace prevails during this election and that Ondo sets a standard for future off-cycle elections,” he said.
He also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for its efforts so far, urging them to uphold a transparent and credible process.
He also acknowledged the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for maintaining peace in the state and encouraged them to be vigilant.
“Ondo has remained one of the relatively peaceful states, and I urge security agencies to continue this resilience,” he said,
He called on voters to exercise their rights without resorting to vote trading, which he warned undermines democracy.
INEC’s National Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, praised the NPC’s timely intervention in fostering peace among parties, noting that the commission had overseen seven peace accords since 2020.
He emphasised that “signing the peace accord alone won’t guarantee a peaceful election; commitment to its implementation is vital.”
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, represented by DIG Abiodun Alabi, revealed plans to deploy over 36,000 officers to secure all polling units across Ondo.
“Four personnel will be stationed at each polling unit to protect INEC materials, officials, and voters,” he stated.
Ondo State Governor and APC governorship candidate, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, commended the NPC’s efforts and pledged his commitment to uphold the peace accord.
He expressed hope that other candidates would also honour the accord, fostering a stable environment during and after the polls.
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