In what could be a step towards creating a peaceful electoral atmosphere, seventeen out of the eighteen political parties participating in the Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21, 2024, have agreed to a peace pact.
However, the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), represented by Chairman Anthony Aziegbemi and their candidate Asue Ighodalo, chose to abstain from signing the accord. Aziegbemi explained their decision, stating it was a protest against the ongoing detention of ten party members by the police in Abuja.
“We are here to express our discontent to the peace committee and declare that the PDP will not endorse a peace agreement while ten of our members remain arrested and held by the police in Abuja,” he asserted to reporters.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, addressed stakeholders during a recent meeting, claiming he was unaware of any arrests involving PDP members in Edo State. He did, however, acknowledge that individuals involved in criminal activities and political violence had been apprehended.
Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, who convened the National Peace Committee, urged all candidates to view peace as a crucial element for ensuring free and fair elections. He emphasized that the committee’s role is to assist the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in orchestrating a violence-free election process.
“We should express gratitude for our nation, especially when we see other African countries grappling with unresolved political crises,” Kukah stated. He encouraged citizens to appreciate the opportunity in Nigeria to pursue justice actively.
Kukah expressed optimism about Nigerians’ growing confidence in the electoral system, noting, “A poorly conducted election can be corrected with another election.” He also called on the people of Edo to participate enthusiastically in the voting process, highlighting the state’s history of producing influential political figures.
In his opening remarks, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, Chairman of the National Peace Committee, reiterated the event’s purpose: to reinforce the commitment to peace, unity, and democratic principles across the nation. He pointed out that since the committee’s establishment in 2014, it has worked diligently to create an environment where every Nigerian can exercise their right to vote without fear.
He urged candidates, political parties, and their supporters to recognize that peace is essential for progress and development. “Without peace, no promises made to the people of Edo State can come to fruition. I encourage everyone to uphold this commitment beyond the election period and graciously accept the election results,” he concluded.
