INEC Sets Early Peace Accord Signing for Edo Governorship Election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that political parties participating in the Edo State governorship election on 21st September are required to sign a peace accord on 12th September 2024.

This step, according to INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, is aimed at fostering a peaceful electoral environment and ensuring that parties adhere to the principles of fair play and non-violence throughout the election period.

The announcement was made during an emergency meeting held on Thursday with the national chairmen and secretaries of all registered political parties.

Prof. Yakubu emphasised the importance of the peace accord, noting that it is not just a symbolic gesture but a critical commitment to upholding democratic values and the rule of law.

The early signing is intended to allow the National Peace Committee to actively monitor compliance by the parties in the lead-up to the election.

Prof. Yakubu expressed concerns over the behaviour of some political parties, particularly their failure to comply with established electoral guidelines.

INEC Chairman highlighted issues such as the delayed submission of details concerning polling and collation agents, which are crucial for the smooth operation of the electoral process.

He stressed that adherence to these guidelines is essential for maintaining the integrity and transparency of the elections.

“After extensive consultations with the National Peace Committee (NPC), led by our esteemed former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, we have agreed that the signing of the Peace Accord for the Edo State Governorship election will take place on Thursday, 12th September 2024, in Benin City,” Yakubu stated.

He further explained that the decision to hold the peace accord signing earlier than usual is a strategic move to enable the Peace Committee to effectively monitor the conduct of the parties, their candidates, and other key stakeholders throughout the remaining days leading up to the election.

The National Peace Committee, chaired by General Abdulsalami Abubakar, will oversee the signing ceremony and subsequent compliance with the peace accord.

The committee, which includes prominent and respected figures from various sectors of Nigerian society, plays a vital role in promoting peaceful elections by engaging with political leaders and fostering dialogue.

The early signing of the accord will allow the committee to scrutinise the actions of the parties and ensure that all signatories honour their commitments to peaceful conduct.

The INEC Chairman reiterated the importance of the peace accord in maintaining public confidence in the electoral process.

“This approach marks a departure from previous practices where peace accords were signed just days before the election.

By signing the accord earlier, we are providing a longer period for the Peace Committee to assess and ensure compliance with the agreed terms,” Yakubu explained.

He underscored that the commitment to peace is not solely the responsibility of the political parties but also involves INEC, security agencies, and other stakeholders in the electoral process.

Yakubu also addressed the broader context of electoral accountability, calling on political parties to uphold the highest standards of conduct.

He noted that the peace accord is an essential mechanism for holding parties accountable and preventing the escalation of tensions that could undermine the electoral process.

INEC is dedicated to creating a level playing field for all candidates and ensuring that the election is conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.

“The peace accord serves as a pledge by all involved to prioritise the interests of the people of Edo State and to reject any actions that could incite violence or disrupt the election,” Yakubu said.

He urged all political parties to view the peace accord as a binding commitment to democracy and the well-being of the state.

As the 21st September election date approaches, INEC is focused on implementing measures that will ensure a credible and peaceful electoral process.

The early signing of the peace accord is part of a broader strategy to engage with political leaders and the electorate, reinforcing the message that violence and electoral malpractice have no place in Nigeria’s democracy.

With the active involvement of the National Peace Committee and the commitment of all parties to the peace accord, there is optimism that the Edo State governorship election will set a positive precedent for future elections in Nigeria.

Prof. Yakubu concluded by reaffirming INEC’s commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and safeguard the democratic rights of the people of Edo State.