Political parties in Enugu signed a Peace Accord on Wednesday in preparation for the Local Government Elections scheduled for September 21. The signing took place during a “Stakeholders’ Engagement on the Enugu State 2024 Local Government Elections” organized by ActionAid Nigeria.
Notably, major parties such as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressive Congress (APC), and Labour Party (LP) were absent from the signing, while the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) declined to sign due to the ruling party’s absence.
Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, emphasized the importance of the peace agreement for a smooth electoral process. Represented by Mr. Celestine Odo, ActionAid Nigeria’s Head of Programme, Mamedu indicated that efforts would be made to ensure all parties sign the accord before the election.
The engagement aimed to tackle historical issues in local elections, such as low voter turnout and the marginalization of women and youth. Mamedu highlighted the goal of fostering a more inclusive and transparent governance system and improving stakeholder coordination for election security.
Mr. Udochukwu Egwim of the South Sahara Social Development Organization (SSDO) assured that the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) would work to get the remaining parties to sign the Peace Accord.
ENSIEC Chairman Prof. Christian Ngwu assured participants that the commission is well-prepared for the elections, with all materials in place and plans for collaboration with security agencies to ensure a credible and fair process.
State Commissioner of Police Kanayo Uzuegbu promised adequate security to protect voters and prevent any form of victimization during the election.