Awka, Anambra State – November 3, 2025
The National Peace Committee (NPC) has once again reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peaceful and credible elections in Nigeria, as political parties and their governorship candidates in Anambra State gathered at the International Convention Centre, Awka, to sign the Anambra State Governorship Election Peace Accord.
A United Call for Peaceful Elections
The Peace Accord Signing, facilitated by the NPC in collaboration with key stakeholders including INEC, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and EU–SDGN partners, marked a major milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to promote non-violence, transparency, and respect for democratic values during elections.
The event brought together an impressive array of dignitaries:
- General Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd), GCFR, Chairman of the NPC, represented by General Martin Luther Agwai (Rtd), CFR
- Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, CON, Convener of the NPC
- Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN), Chairman of INEC
- DIG Benjamin Okolo, representing the Inspector-General of Police, Dr Kayode Egbetokun
- Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, Governor of Anambra State
- Traditional and religious leaders, security chiefs, and civil society groups
Setting the Tone
In his welcome remarks, General Martin Luther Agwai (Rtd) emphasized that the Peace Accord symbolizes a shared moral commitment to peace, justice, and credible elections above personal or party interests. He urged candidates to exercise restraint and lead with discipline, while calling on INEC and security agencies to ensure fairness and neutrality.
Professor Amupitan (SAN), INEC Chairman, commended the Peace Committee’s work and reiterated INEC’s readiness to deliver a credible poll. He reminded political leaders to extend the message of peace to their grassroots supporters.
Representing the Inspector-General of Police, DIG Benjamin Okolo assured attendees that adequate security measures were in place, with officers deployed across all 4,608 polling units to safeguard voters, officials, and the integrity of the ballot.
Engaging with Election Realities
The NPC Project Manager, Barr. Asabe Ndahi, presented findings from the NPC’s pre-election assessment, highlighting emerging issues such as voter intimidation, disinformation, and localized security risks. She also referenced data from the Election Security Information Hub hosted at The Kukah Centre, identifying high, medium, and low-risk LGAs while encouraging citizens to uphold peace on election day.
The Signing Ceremony
In a symbolic demonstration of unity, 13 out of 16 gubernatorial candidates and 15 out of 19 party chairpersons signed the Peace Accord, pledging to conduct themselves and their campaigns peacefully. The INEC Chairman and the NPF representative signed as witnesses to the accord.
Candidates and their party representatives sealed the commitment with gestures of goodwill—handshakes and warm exchanges that reflected mutual respect and a collective desire for stability.
Peace Messages and Reflections
Chief Uchenna Ugworji, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Anambra, urged candidates to honor their pledges and resolve disputes through lawful channels.
In his message, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah reminded participants that peace is the cornerstone of credible elections. He called for restraint, civility, and dialogue, stressing that the integrity of the electoral process depends on leaders’ moral choices and their respect for the rule of law.
Governor Charles Soludo described the Peace Accord as a “sacred commitment” that must be upheld by all. He commended the NPC for its leadership and emphasized that respecting the accord would protect democracy and strengthen public confidence in governance.
A Commitment Renewed
In his closing remarks, Bishop Kukah expressed gratitude to all signatories and partners for their unwavering support. He reaffirmed the NPC’s dedication to sustaining peace and democratic integrity across Nigeria, emphasizing that true democracy can only flourish in an environment of mutual respect and non-violence.
Conclusion
The 2025 Anambra Peace Accord stands as a testament to the collective resolve of stakeholders to ensure that elections in Nigeria are not a contest of might, but a celebration of democracy. By coming together under one banner of peace, political actors in Anambra have set a powerful example for the rest of the country ahead of future elections.