In a landmark move to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process, political parties and candidates contesting the upcoming November 1 local government elections in Niger State have signed a peace accord facilitated by the Niger State Police Command.
The accord was formalized during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held at the Police Officers’ Mess in Minna, convened by the Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman. The event brought together representatives from the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission (NSIEC), the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), government officials, security agencies, and political aspirants.
“The police will remain professional, neutral, and fair in ensuring a secure environment before, during, and after the elections,” CP Elleman assured attendees. He also urged youths to reject violence and become ambassadors of peace.
The peace accord is part of a broader initiative to promote maturity, responsibility, and collective commitment to democratic values among political actors. The NSIEC Chairman, Engr. Mohammed Imam, presented a comprehensive 15-point election guideline covering the conduct of elections for 25 council chairmen and 274 councillors across 4,950 polling units in the state.
Hon. Isah Mohammed Bello Makujeri, Chairman of IPAC Niger State Chapter, emphasized the importance of political tolerance and collaboration, noting that peaceful elections are essential for sustainable development and public trust in democratic institutions.
Also present was Hon. Nma Kolo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Affairs, who reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting free and fair elections.
The peace pact is expected to serve as a binding commitment by all signatories to uphold non-violence, respect electoral laws, and accept the outcomes of the polls in good faith. Security agencies pledged to maintain vigilance and respond swiftly to any threats to public order.