A former Head of State and Chairman, National Peace Committee, Abdulsalami Abubakar, has stated that politicians contesting for the 2023 general elections must sign a peace pact.
Abdulsalami made this known on Thursday, in Minna, Niger State, after a meeting with the committee members. He stated that during electioneering campaigns, politicians and their supporters create incitements which could endanger the country’s peace.
He said, “The pattern of public communication among political actors, their publicity agents, spokespersons, and media consultants has amplified the potential for personal attacks, insults, and incitement.”
Adding that the attacks by politicians and their supporters on their opponents, “has relegated to the background, the civility and decency in public discourse and debate. It has shifted focus away from issue-based campaigns, to consolidating identity politics and the politics of thuggery.”
The Peace Committee chairman, added that to promote a peaceful electioneering process, the committee has organised the signing of a peace pact.
“In view of this, there is need to promote a culture of healthy issue-based campaigns and political communication. Consequently, the National Peace Committee, has organised the signing of two Peace Accords for the 2023 general elections.”
Abdulsalami stated that the first Peace Accord, will hold on Thursday, September 29, 2022, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, to commit all political parties, presidential candidates and their spokespersons to peaceful political campaigns and rallies, devoid of violence, incitement and personal insults, but defined by issues at the very heart of national development and progress.
“The second Peace Accord, will come up shortly before the elections, and it is intended to commit candidates to accepting the outcome of the votes as long as it is adjudged to be free, fair and credible.” Abubakar added.
He further called on stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria is placed above regional and sectional interest.
“Therefore, the NPC calls on all Nigerians, politicians, political parties, security agencies, the election management body, INEC and all stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria is placed first above regional and sectional claims.
“The PC reminds all Nigerians that the 2023 general election is more than an election. It is an opportunity to serve Nigeria, to defend Nigeria and to uphold her unity and progress. Nigerians should avoid the spread of fake news and uphold the principles of tolerance, respect, civility and decency in all public and private conversations and engagements about the elections and the progress of Nigeria.” He further stated.
