By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja
Political parties and other stakeholders in the Saturday’s Bayelsa, Kogi and Imo governorship elections are billed to sign a peace accord on Wednesday this week.
The was disclosed by the General Abdulsalami Abubakar-led National Peace Committee (NPC), in a statement on Sunday.
The former Head of State pleaded with all stakeholders to play their parts in ensuring peace before, during and after the elections in the three states.
According to the statement, “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 statement said.
The committee stressed the need to have a peaceful electoral process for the benefits of the nation.
Continuing, the statement said, “We acknowledge this pressing need to cultivate a peaceful and conducive environment, especially with the escalations of violence in various regions of our country.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 inciting rhetoric, which could trigger violence.
“We implore all key stakeholders in Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi states to step forward and play their parts 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 tranquility 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”, it said.
The committee also urged residents to ensure the electoral process epitomises the spirit of progress and hope, which will set the standard for unity and growth in the country.
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