Osun poll: Governorship candidates commit to peaceful election, sign accord

Candidates contesting the August 15 governorship election in Osun State have signed a peace accord, committing themselves to a peaceful, transparent and violence-free electoral process.

The agreement was signed at a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the National Peace Committee, with representatives of political parties, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, civil society organisations and other election stakeholders in attendance.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the National Peace Committee and former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), who was represented by former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Martin Agwai (retd.), urged candidates and their supporters to conduct their campaigns with restraint and respect for democratic principles.

He stressed that no political ambition should be pursued at the expense of peace, urging all parties to reject violence, hate speech and any action capable of undermining the credibility of the election.

National Peace Committee Convener, Bishop Matthew Kukah, described the accord as a commitment by political actors to place the interest of the state above personal ambition. He called on all stakeholders, including security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, the media and civil society groups, to support efforts aimed at ensuring a peaceful poll.

Also speaking, committee member Cardinal John Onaiyekan urged candidates to honour the commitments they had voluntarily made, noting that peaceful elections are critical to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, represented by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone XI, AIG Olabode Fasuba, assured residents of adequate security before, during and after the election.

He said security agencies would remain professional and impartial throughout the electoral process while warning anyone planning to disrupt the exercise to desist.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, described the peace accord as a significant step towards promoting a credible electoral process, urging candidates and political parties to abide by its provisions and allow the electorate to freely determine the outcome of the election.