Atiku, Makinde absent as presidential candidates, parties sign peace pact

Political parties and candidates for the 2027 general elections signed the First National Peace Accord in Abuja, committing to issue-based campaigns and vowing to shun violence, hate speech, personal attacks, and misinformation. The ceremony, organized by the National Peace Committee in partnership with The Kukah Centre, took place just before the official commencement of campaigns.

However, the event was notably marked by the absence of prominent opposition figures, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress, and Seyi Makinde, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress. President Bola Tinubu, seeking re-election under the All Progressives Congress, was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.

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Signing this peace accord is a solemn pledge to the Nigerian people that we, as leaders, will put the nation’s interests above personal or partisan ambitions.

Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, Akume urged political actors to place national interest above personal and partisan ambitions, emphasizing that elections should not be a "do-or-die affair." He commended the National Peace Committee for its sustained peace initiatives since 2014, acknowledging its role in encouraging candidates to commit to peaceful campaigns.

Tinubu's message stressed that signing the accord was a "solemn pledge to the Nigerian people." He acknowledged the historical tension surrounding political contests in Nigeria but highlighted the country's progress in electoral management, particularly through the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) adoption of technology. He cited the Permanent Voter Cards, the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, and electronic accreditation as measures that have strengthened confidence in the electoral system. The President also cautioned parties against exploiting ethnic and religious sentiments during campaigns.

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The Trump Administration has been clear: the International Criminal Court (ICC) is a corrupt and fatally politicized supranational court that has maliciously abused its authority and exceeded its mandate. We will not tolerate its assault on state sovereignty.