Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has assured that all political parties and their candidates contesting the forthcoming Anambra governorship election will adhere strictly to the peace accord signed ahead of the polls.
Soludo, who spoke on behalf of all 16 candidates during the peace signing ceremony organized by the National Peace Committee (NPC), commended the initiative, describing it as vital to Nigeria’s democratic maturity.
He noted that while Anambra politics is known for its intense rivalry, the state has also built a culture of reconciliation and camaraderie among politicians after elections.
“The candidates are all my friends. The roforofo (fight) will end on Thursday and by Sunday we will all go for thanksgiving. That’s the Anambra way. When we fight, we fight as if there is no tomorrow, but afterward, we dine and wine together,” Soludo said.
The governor urged his fellow candidates to take the peace accord seriously, likening it to a “secret oath” that should guide their campaigns and that of their supporters.
“What we have signed today is something we should go home with and give to our campaign partners. It is a secret oath. Let us try to domesticate it as we go home,” he added.
Soludo also pledged his administration’s cooperation with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies to ensure a free, fair, and credible election.
“We are committed to one man, one vote. Let people vote, count the votes, and announce the results. My party, the APGA, will be happy to abide by this,” he assured.
Earlier, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd), chairman of the National Peace Committee, represented by Gen. Martin Luther Agwai, urged all candidates to place peace above personal or party ambitions.
Agwai emphasized that democracy can only thrive in an atmosphere of restraint and mutual respect.
“We are gathered here above all rising ambitions and party interests for the security and dignity of Anambra people. Democracy can only thrive where life is held sacred,” he said.
He also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media to play their roles responsibly in sustaining peace before, during, and after the elections.
“To the media, we appeal for reporting that informs and not reporting that fuels division,” Agwai added.
All 16 candidates and party chairmen signed the peace accord, pledging to maintain decorum throughout the electoral process.
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