Candidates of the thirteen political parties participating in the upcoming June 20, 2026 off-cycle governorship election in Ekiti State, South West of Nigeria have signed a peace accord, committing themselves to a violence-free electoral process.
The accord signing event, facilitated by the Bishop Hassan Kukah-les National Peace Committee (NPC) was executed in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday, thus securing pledges from political parties and their governorship candidates to conduct issue-based campaigns, respect the rules of engagement, and shun all forms of electoral violence before, during, and after the poll.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, described the peace accord as a vital instrument for promoting peaceful electoral conduct and strengthening public confidence in the democratic process.
He noted that the Commission hopes to build on the successes recorded during the November 2025 governorship election in Anambra State by ensuring a credible and violence-free poll in Ekiti State.
Also speaking, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, said the agreement highlights the importance of peaceful political participation and would further enhance public trust in Nigeria’s electoral system.
Convener of the National Peace Committee, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, urged political actors and supporters to place greater value on human lives than political ambitions, stressing that peaceful elections are essential for the sustenance of democracy and national development.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji who spoke on behalf of the governorship candidates, pledged to maintain cordial relations with fellow contestants and work towards a peaceful, transparent, and credible election.
Editor: Ken Eseni
