Ekiti 2026: Parties, candidates sign Peace Accord

In a significant move towards ensuring electoral tranquility, political parties and their candidates vying for the Ekiti State governorship in the upcoming June 20, 2026 election have formally committed to peace by signing an Accord. This initiative, spearheaded by the National Peace Committee and facilitated by the Kukah Centre, underscores a collective desire for a credible and violence-free electoral process.

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a collective commitment to peaceful, credible, free, and fair elections.

The signing ceremony brought together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), led by Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, and top officials from the police and other security agencies. The presence of these bodies signifies the seriousness with which the election's peaceful conduct is being approached, recognizing that security and fairness are paramount for democratic legitimacy.

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to promote issue-based campaigns, political tolerance, respect for the rule of law, and the rejection of violence, hate speech, and all forms of electoral misconduct.

Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar (retd), Chairman of the National Peace Committee, articulated the accord's purpose: reinforcing accountability and democratic responsibility. He stressed that signing the accord represents a unified resolve to champion issue-based campaigns, foster political tolerance, uphold the rule of law, and unequivocally reject violence, hate speech, and electoral misconduct. This emphasis on issue-based campaigns is particularly relevant in Nigeria, where personality clashes and inflammatory rhetoric can often overshadow substantive policy debates.

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It is therefore important that all political actors and supporters conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly throughout the election to enable all of us to show that Ekiti State is a very politically aware state.

Abubakar lauded Ekiti State's reputation for political awareness and democratic culture, urging all actors to uphold this standard. The message is clear: no political ambition should come at the cost of lives or the state's peace. The accord serves as a public pledge, reminding candidates and their supporters that while elections are temporary, the state's unity and peace are enduring values. This proactive approach, focusing on prevention and commitment, is crucial for building confidence in Nigeria's democratic journey.

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As we approach the election, we must remember that no political ambition is worth the loss of life or destruction of peace in our communities. Elections will come and go, but the peace and unity of the state must be maintained.