Edo 2024: APC Reverses Stand, Signs Peace Accord Amidst Drama

After initially refusing to sign the peace agreement, the APC joins 17 other political parties in committing to a peaceful electoral process, as PDP remains skeptical

In a surprising turn of events, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reversed its initial decision and signed the Edo 2024 peace accord. This came just two hours after the party had declared its refusal to participate in the agreement, citing concerns about unresolved violence against its members. Acting Chairman, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, and APC’s governorship candidate, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, eventually decided to join 17 other political parties in signing the accord, acknowledging the credibility of the National Peace Committee led by General Abdulsalami Abubakar and Bishop Hassan Kukah.

Tenebe explained that the decision to sign the Edo 2024 peace accord was driven by respect for the rule of law and the National Peace Committee. “We had to reconsider because General Abubakar is an elder statesman, and it’s important for us to respect that,” Tenebe said, adding that assurances from the police to apprehend those responsible for an attack on their candidate’s convoy also influenced their decision.

However, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), led by Chairman Dr. Tony Aziegbemi and governorship candidate Asue Ighodalo, remained firm in its refusal to sign the Edo 2024 peace accord. Aziegbemi expressed doubts about the accord’s effectiveness, criticizing the police for arresting several PDP members. “We cannot trust a biased Inspector General of Police to ensure fairness in this election,” he argued.

Secretary to the Edo State Government, Joseph Eboigbe, representing Governor Godwin Obaseki, echoed similar sentiments, insisting that the PDP would only sign once its arrested members were released or charged to court. Eboigbe, however, affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all stakeholders in the upcoming election.

General Abdulsalami Abubakar, in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of peace in democracy. He urged the candidates and their supporters to prioritize the interest of the people over personal or party ambitions, reminding them that without peace, the promises made during the campaigns could not be fulfilled.

Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, also stressed the need for parties to uphold their commitment to the Edo 2024 peace accord, encouraging candidates to honor their pledges not just on paper, but through their actions leading up to the election.

Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, further assured stakeholders of the police’s impartiality, professionalism, and vigilance during the electoral process. He outlined robust security measures designed to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

In his concluding remarks, Bishop Hassan Kukah called on Edo voters to actively participate in the election and urged candidates to seek legal recourse if dissatisfied with the results. He affirmed that the National Peace Committee had mechanisms in place to address any grievances that might arise.

Conclusion:

While the APC’s reversal and participation in the Edo 2024 peace accord may signal a step toward a more peaceful election, the PDP’s continued reservations about police impartiality keep tensions high. The upcoming election will test the effectiveness of the peace accord and the readiness of stakeholders to uphold democratic principles in Edo State.