- General Abdulsalami Abubakar urges Nigerian politicians to end vote-buying, emphasizing the need for fair and credible elections ahead of Ondo’s governorship election
- During the Peace Accord signing, candidates pledged commitment to a peaceful election, with Abdulsalami stressing sportsmanship and acceptance of election results
Former military Head of State and Chairman of the National Peace Committee (NPC), General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has called on Nigerian politicians to end the practice of vote-buying, stressing the importance of fair and credible elections.
Abdulsalami made this appeal during the Peace Accord signing for the upcoming Ondo governorship election, scheduled for November 16, which took place in Akure, the state capital.
Candidates from the 17 political parties participating in the election pledged their commitment to a peaceful election by signing the accord.
Abdulsalami urged candidates to accept the results, provided they are free, fair, and credible, and encouraged those with grievances to seek peaceful, lawful avenues to address their concerns.
He stated, “I urge all politicians who will sign the accord to fully commit themselves and their parties to the letter and spirit of the accord, to shun violence and intimidation.
Remember, as politicians, you must show sportsmanship — a key trait of good leadership. It is the duty of Nigerian citizens to elect their leaders free from inducement or prejudice. Political actors must also discontinue this menace of vote-trading.”
Commending the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its preparations, Abdulsalami called on the electoral body to ensure that eligible voters can cast their ballots peacefully.
He also praised the Nigeria Police Force and members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) for their efforts in maintaining peace in the lead-up to the election.
INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu highlighted the importance of true commitment to the Peace Accord, saying, “Signing the Peace Accord alone does not guarantee a peaceful election.
Your commitment to implementing it is crucial. To all political parties and candidates, it’s essential that you share this commitment with your supporters to ensure respect for peace.”
In support of security efforts, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, represented by Deputy Inspector General Sylvester Alabi, announced the deployment of personnel to the state’s 3,933 polling units and 203 political wards.
Egbetokun assured the public that police officers would safeguard electoral officials, materials, and voters.
Representing the candidates, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) acknowledged Ondo’s peaceful atmosphere during the campaigns and committed to maintaining this peace.
He encouraged all candidates to follow democratic principles, reminding everyone that while elections come and go, the state will endure.
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