Peace Committee urges INEC, security agencies, and others to ensure transparency in Nov.11 governorship elections

The National Peace Committee (NPC), headed by former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and other government agencies to ensure transparency in the upcoming governorship elections in Kogi, Bayelsa, and Imo states.

General Abubakar, in a statement issued in Abuja, said the electoral stakeholders should conduct the elections with transparency because the whole nation and the world are watching.

Abubakar said the NPC, as a committed advocate for peace, stability, and democracy in Nigeria, remained steadfast in its contribution to peaceful elections and fostering unity across the nation.

Abubakar also said the Committee recognised the urgent need to create a peaceful and conducive environment, especially with the rising violence in different parts of the country.

“The governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states present another opportunity to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to peaceful democratic transitions, setting a positive example for the nation.

“The NPC continues to engage state institutions and political actors in our effort 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 carried out with transparency and fairness, without intimidating actions or divisive rhetoric that could spark violence. We call on all key stakeholders in Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi states to step forward and play their part in preserving 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 a non-partisan body that places the utmost importance on maintaining the peace, unity, and tranquilly 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 whole nation and the world are watching.

It is important to continually build and reinforce public trust in the process to ensure free, fair, credible, and transparent elections,” Abubakar said.

While extending the best wishes of the NPC to the residents of Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states, Abubakar noted that the collective efforts to ensure the electoral process exemplifies the spirit of progress and hope will set the standard for unity and growth in the country.

“The NPC hereby wishes to announce the signing of peace accords on Wednesday, November 8, 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,” Abubakar also said.