Political parties and other stakeholders in Bayelsa, Kogi, Imo would be made to commit to peaceful conduct of the governorship election scheduled for 11 Novemeber 2023.
The parties are therefore expected to sign the peace accord on Wednesday 8th November 2023.
The National Peace committee disclosed this in a statement signed the the former military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd).
The Abdulsalami led Peace Committee also pleaded with all stakeholders to play their part in ensuring peace before, during and after the elections in the three states.
Residents of the three states would be going to the poll to elect their governor on November 11 2023 according to the Independent National Electoral Commission,’ programme of activities.
The National Peace Committee (NPC), stated : “The NPC hereby wishes to announce the signing of Peace Accords on Wednesday, 8th November 2023, by political parties and other election stakeholders in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States. This is to pledge their commitment to peaceful, transparent, and equitable elections in their respective states.”
The committee stressed the need to have a peaceful electoral process for the benefit of the nation.
The statement reads in part: “We acknowledge this pressing need to cultivate a peaceful and conducive environment, especially with the escalations of violence in various regions of our country. The governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States offer another opportunity to underscore our unwavering commitment to peaceful democratic transitions, setting an inspiring example for the entire nation.
“The NPC continues to engage state institutions and political actors in our bid to facilitate the commitment of stakeholders to democratic processes, for the development and wellbeing of the nation. These efforts aim to ensure that the electoral process is conducted with transparency and impartiality, devoid of intimidating actions and incitive rhetoric, which could trigger violence.
“We implore all key stakeholders in Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi States to step forward and play their part in safeguarding our country’s peace and stability—before, during, and after these Governorship Elections.
“The responsibility for peace belongs to each of us.
” We appeal to citizens in these States to exercise their rights to vote, choosing their leaders according to the provisions of the law. Remember, your vote is your voice, and with your participation, we can collectively build a better state.
“As an apolitical body, which places the utmost importance on preserving the peace, unity, and tranquillity of our nation, we urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)–the elections ombudsman, security agencies and other government agencies that facilitate the conduct of the electoral process to do so with transparency, particularly because the entire nation and the world is watching. It is important to continually build and reinforce public trust in the process to ensure free, fair, credible and transparent elections.
The committee also urged residents to ensure the electoral process epitomizes the spirit of progress and hope, that will set the standard for unity and growth in the country.
