Barely three days to the Kogi State off-cycle governorship election, slated for Saturday, candidates and Political Parties participating in the election on Wednesday signed a peace accord to ensure a violence free election.
The peace accord was signed in Lokoja, in a ceremony organized by Kukah centre which was funded by European Union.
In his remarks, the Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Sokoto Mathew Hassan Kukah who was represented by Attah Barkindo said election is not a do or die affair, stressing that, politicians should ensure they conduct themselves peacefully to ensure a smooth electioneering process.
Bishop Kukah appreciated the people of Kogi State for their resilience and believe in democracy adding that, violence should always be discouraged during election.
His words”Whatever happens, democracy is better than dictatorship. I want to appreciate all the political parties that are present here. We were afraid that no body will honour this peace accord.
“The reason is that people have lost trust and they are in despair. There is despondency across the land. People don’t trust institutions. You have come out and supported us for this great course.
“We are highly grateful to the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC), security agencies for all the support and partnership we have received over the years”.
In his remarks, the Governor of Kogi State Alhaji Yahaya Adoza Bello who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Barrister Didat Ozigi lauded the Kukah centre for their service to humanity.
Governor Bello said his administration has the interest in securing all citizens of Kogi State stressing that, the platform will help in assisting the State in maintaining peace and fighting insecurities.
According to the Governor, the present administration has made
Kogi State unsafe for criminal elements, adding that, there have been a robust relationship with security agencies to fight insecurities.
Governor Bello admonished Kogites to conduct themselves peacefully and ensure that they work within the ambit of the law, before, during and after the election.
He further admonished other political parties in Kogi State to ensure that the election is peaceful
Earlier, the Kogi State Chairman,
Jama’atu Nasril Islam Ambassador Usman Bello emphasized the need for political gladiators to maintain peace
He commended the Kukah centre for leading the crusade for a free and fair election, just as he admonished all the Governorship Candidate to toe the line of peace and not violence.
