Ahead of the September 21 Edo governorship election, 17 out of 18 political parties contesting the race have signed a peace accord, committing to a non-violent electoral process. However, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) refused to sign the agreement, citing the detention of 10 of its members by the police in Abuja as the reason for their protest.
PDP Chairman Anthony Aziegbemhin, along with the party’s candidate Asue Ighodalo, stated that they would not endorse the peace accord while their members remain detained. This issue was addressed by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who claimed not to be aware of any PDP members being arrested specifically for political reasons, although he acknowledged the arrest of individuals involved in crimes and political violence.
The peace accord, signed in a ceremony nine days before the election, was facilitated by the National Peace Committee, led by Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah and former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar. Bishop Kukah urged the candidates to prioritize peace as a cornerstone for a credible election, emphasizing that peace is essential for democracy and the fulfillment of political promises.
INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu assured the public that the commission would uphold electoral laws, while Inspector-General Egbetokun pledged that the police would provide a fair and secure environment for the election. Governor Godwin Obaseki, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Joseph Eboigbe, also committed to ensuring the safety of all stakeholders during the election.