Political parties in Akwa Ibom have signed a pact with the Police for a peaceful political engagement and commitment to a violence-free electoral process in the State.

The peace accord signing involved leaders and representatives of political parties, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), heads and representatives of sister security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, members of the media and other stakeholders.

Speaking in Uyo during the signing ceremony, Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, tasked political parties and their supporters to embrace peace, tolerance and issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

Azare warned political parties against violence, thuggery or any attempt to undermine the democratic process, saying the peace accord was a demonstration of a collective determination to protect the peace, security and democratic stability of Akwa Ibom State.

Explaining that political competition was fundamental to democracy, the CP urged that it should be conducted within the bounds of the law.

“Political competition is an essential part of democracy, but it must remain peaceful, lawful and issue-based. No political ambition should be pursued through violence, intimidation, thuggery, hate speech, misinformation, vote buying or the destruction of lives and property,” he stated.

The Commissioner called on political leaders to take full responsibility for the conduct of their members and supporters by ensuring that the peace pact filters down to every level of their structures, including candidates, party officials, campaign organisations, agents, youth groups and supporters.

The CP also called for sustained collaboration among political parties, INEC, security agencies, traditional institutions, religious leaders, civil society organisations, the media and the electorate throughout the electoral cycle. (Daily Trust)