Abdusalami, Bishop Kuka Lead Peace Accord Signing Ceremony For Governorship Candidates In Anambra

Chukwujekwu Ilozue

Former Military Head of state, General Abdusalami Abubakar and the Bishop of Sokoto Diocese Most Revd Matthew Kuka on Monday led governorship candidates in the November 8 election in Anambra State in signing a peace accord to maintain the peace during and after the election.

The largely ceremonial event was witnessed by the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Peace Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, represented by General Martin-Luther Agwai said Anambra holds a special place in the Country, pointing out that democracy should always reflect the will of the people, as such, the principles should be honoured.

The Chairman, Independent Electoral Commission, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan expressed commitment to ensuring a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election, stressing that INEC can only succeed when they receive corresponding support from other stakeholders.

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by the DIG, Operations, Ben Okolo emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force stands prepared to ensure the promotion of calm and peaceful atmosphere as strategies have been mapped out in liaison with sister security agencies.

He called on candidates and their followers to embrace peace before, during and after the election

The incumbent, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, as the APGA candidate, was joined at the International Convention Center, Awka, by his opponents in a show of unity and shared commitment to democratic values.

In his address, Governor Soludo emphasized the importance of peaceful elections, stating that the day marks a crucial step towards ensuring that democracy thrives in Anambra, saying that the Anambra way is to fight and embrace the next day after the elections, expressing confidence in INEC to execute the assignment which he described as onerous.

The Convener, National Peace Committee, Bishop Hassan Kukah revealed that the event aims to ensure that democracy becomes believable, calling on INEC and other institutions to carry out their duties in fairness and honour.

The event, which took place at International Conference, Awka, the state capital, was organized under the auspices of the National Peace Committee (NPC) and brought together political leaders, security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organizations, and traditional rulers.

Speaking during the ceremony, the IGP emphasized the importance of political tolerance and respect for democratic values, urging all candidates and their supporters to commit genuinely to peace before, during, and after the election. He reaffirmed the readiness of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to provide adequate security for the election, stressing that the police would remain neutral and professional in the discharge of their duties.

The Inspector General commended the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc minps for his proactive security engagements and continuous advocacy for peaceful participation across the state.

In their remarks, the political party candidates pledged to uphold the principles of non-violence, urging their supporters to conduct themselves responsibly and respect the electoral process.

The Peace Accord signing marks a significant step toward fostering harmony and mutual trust among stakeholders as Anambra prepares for the November 8, 2025 governorship poll.