Seventeen political parties contesting the September 21 Edo governorship election have signed a peace accord, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) declined.
PDP Chairman Anthony Aziegbemi and candidate Asue Ighodalo attended the signing ceremony but refused to sign, citing the detention of 10 party members by the police in Abuja.
Aziegbemi stated that signing the accord would be inappropriate while their members were being held.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun previously denied knowledge of PDP members’ arrests, stating that only individuals involved in crimes and political violence were detained.
The peace accord signing, facilitated by the National Peace Committee, aims to ensure a peaceful and credible election.
Convener Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah emphasized the importance of peace in elections, urging candidates to prioritize it.
Committee Chairman Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar stressed that peace is essential for progress and development.
INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu assured the commission’s commitment to electoral laws.
Inspector-General Egbetokun pledged impartiality and professionalism from the police and security agencies.
Governor Godwin Obaseki, represented by Secretary to the State Government Joseph Eboigbe, ensured the safety of stakeholders and expressed concern over the detained PDP members.
The signing ceremony comes just nine days before the governorship election.
