In a determined effort to guarantee peace and order during the upcoming Anambra governorship election, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, on Monday, November 3, 2025, witnessed the formal signing of a Peace Accord by political party flag bearers in the state.
The event, which took place at the International Conference Centre in Awka, was convened under the auspices of the National Peace Committee (NPC). It brought together an array of stakeholders, including political leaders, security agencies, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organizations, and traditional rulers.
In his address, IGP Egbetokun underscored the critical role of peace and tolerance in democratic governance. He urged all political candidates and their supporters to embrace peaceful conduct before, during, and after the election, warning that violence or disruption would not be tolerated.
The Police Chief reaffirmed the preparedness of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to provide a safe and conducive environment for the electoral process. He stressed that the police would remain neutral, impartial, and professional in ensuring the will of the people prevailed.
According to him, “The peace and credibility of this election rest on the collective commitment of all stakeholders. The police and other agencies are fully ready to safeguard the process and uphold the integrity of our democracy.”
Egbetokun commended the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, for his proactive approach to maintaining security and engaging stakeholders ahead of the poll. He lauded the state command’s continuous advocacy for non-violence and civic responsibility across the local government areas.
The IGP’s remarks resonated with calls from traditional leaders and civil society groups, who also appealed for restraint, decorum, and respect for the rule of law as campaigns enter their final phase.
Candidates representing various political parties took turns to express their commitment to peace and fair play. They jointly signed the accord, pledging to abide by its principles and ensure that their supporters do not resort to hate speech, thuggery, or electoral malpractice.
One of the aspirants described the Peace Accord as “a moral contract that binds us all to put Anambra first,” while another emphasized that democracy thrives only in an atmosphere free from fear and intimidation.
Representatives of the National Peace Committee noted that the accord was designed to instill trust and mutual understanding among political actors, reaffirming the Committee’s resolve to monitor adherence to the agreement throughout the election period.
Observers from the INEC and civil society organizations commended the initiative, describing it as a vital tool in curbing electoral violence and strengthening citizens’ confidence in the process.
The atmosphere at the ceremony was calm and collegial, with participants exchanging assurances of cooperation and non-aggression. Many expressed optimism that the exercise would set a positive tone for the November 8 governorship poll.
The Peace Accord signing, which concluded with prayers and a symbolic handshake among the candidates, was hailed as a milestone toward building a culture of peaceful elections in Anambra State.
It also signaled the collective resolve of political leaders, law enforcement, and citizens to uphold the sanctity of the ballot and ensure that the will of the people is freely expressed without intimidation or violence.
SP Ikenga Tochukwu, the Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Command, affirmed that the Force remains committed to transparency, professionalism, and the protection of lives and property throughout the election period.
With the Peace Accord now signed, all eyes turn to Saturday, November 8, 2025, as Anambra prepares to demonstrate once again that democracy and peace can coexist harmoniously in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
