Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has joined other 15 governorship candidates to sign the Anambra State Peace Accord ahead of the upcoming 2025 off-cycle governorship election in the State
Held at the International Convention Centre Awka, the Accord is to promote a peaceful electoral atmosphere and encourage respectful competition among candidates.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Soludo said the Anambra way is to fight and embrace at the end of the day, saying this election won’t be an exception.
The Governor expressed gratitude to Bishop Matthew Kukah and the Center for Democracy and Development for their critical role in establishing the peace committee that facilitated the Accord.
While labeling the Peace Accord document as a sacred book and an important addition to the country’s democratic process, Governor Soludo encouraged all involved to domesticate the principles contained therein, urging participants to take the commitment seriously as they return to their respective environments.
He applauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its consistent delivery of free and fair elections in Anambra over the years, expressing optimism that the commission will continue to uphold these standards in the Saturday Guber election.
The Governor underscored the critical need for public trust in the electoral process, asserting, “In the 5,720 polling units, we are interested in ONE MAN, ONE VOTE. LET THE VOTES COUNT.”
On his part, the Chairman of the Nigeria Peace Committee, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, represented by General Martin-Luther Agwai, emphasized the unique significance of Anambra in the nation’s landscape. “Anambra holds a special place in the country, and democracy should always reflect the will of the people.” He urged the audience to uphold these foundational principles, affirming, “Democracy should reflect the will of the people…we must honor these principles.”
In a personal touch, Agwai added, “Let there be peace as a birthday gift to me,” highlighting the importance of harmony during the electoral process.
The Convener, National Peace Committee, Bishop Hassan Kukah said the initiative is geared towards making the country’s democracy credible.
He further commended and encouraged the electoral umpire to perform their duties with fairness and integrity.
Earlier, the Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Benjamin Okolo, assured that the police force is fully prepared to foster a calm and peaceful environment.
He emphasized the Force understanding of its statutory responsibilities, saying that strategies have been developed in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure a peaceful election. “Our loyalty lies solely with the Constitution and the sovereign will of the people,” he affirmed, adding that “the by peace of Anambra State is non-negotiable.”
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan appreciated the committee and its leaders for bringing together party candidates and stakeholders, stating that their efforts have made a meaningful impact on national elections.
“As the newly appointed INEC chairman, this will be my first election, and I am committed to ensuring that it is peaceful, credible, free, fair, and just,” he said. Prof. Amupitan emphasized that the success of the electoral process hinges on the support from all stakeholders.
He noted that, in the past, political parties have typically adhered to the peace accord, asserting, “INEC will remain fully committed to fulfilling its responsibilities in accordance with the law.”
Furthermore, he emphasized that it is not merely the signatures on the peace accord that ensure tranquility but the genuine commitment to upholding its terms. “Send this message to your supporters at all levels,” he urged.
Prof. Amupitan also assured voters that they should expect significant improvements in election logistics for the upcoming polls.
ANN reports that the highlight of the occasion was when candidates and chairmen of the 16 political parties participating in the election, took turns to sign the Peace Accord amidst warm embrace.###
