Nigeria’s major political contenders have made a fresh appeal for peaceful conduct ahead of the 2027 elections.
President Bola Tinubu was represented by SGF George Akume at the National Peace Accord signing in Abuja.
Peter Obi, Omoyele Sowore and Donald Duke were among the presidential candidates who signed the agreement.
The ceremony was held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre. Political party leaders and other candidates also attended.
The National Peace Committee organised the event as part of efforts to promote peaceful political engagement. The second phase of the accord is expected after the 2027 elections.
Speaking before the signing, Obi called for an election where voters’ choices would be respected.
“I don’t have any fear [going into next year’s election] except to say that, please, for the sake of the children of Nigeria, can we have an election where people’s votes will count?”
The former Anambra governor also urged Nigerians to reject politicians who breach the peace agreement.
“Well, the punishment is that Nigerians should not vote for them,” he said.
Obi further challenged political contestants to maintain high standards throughout the election period.
“You can’t answer ‘His Excellency’ without being an excellent person,” Obi said.
“So, the process that will make you answer ‘His Excellency’ should be excellent, and the only way to do it is to conduct yourself properly.”
The 2027 elections are expected to draw intense political competition across the country.
With campaigns approaching, the peace accord places renewed attention on responsible conduct among political actors.
