Footage from the meeting
Some political parties in Enugu have signed a peace accord ahead of the local government elections scheduled for September 21, 2024.
The signing took place during a “Stakeholders’ Engagement on the Enugu State 2024 Local Government Elections” organized by ActionAid Nigeria.
Notably, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and Labour Party (LP) were absent from the event.
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All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) declined to sign due to the absence of the ruling party.
Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, highlighted the need for political parties to participate in the peace accord to ensure a peaceful election.
Speaking through the Head of Programme, Mr. Celestine Odo, Mamedu stated that efforts were being made by stakeholders like the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and the Justice Development Peace Commission (JDPC) to have the remaining parties sign the accord before Friday.
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“This initiative is essential to address issues like low voter turnout and the marginalization of women and youth in local elections. Our goal is to create a more inclusive and accountable governance system,” Mamedu explained.
Prof. Christian Ngwu, Chairman of the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC), assured participants that the commission is fully prepared for the election, with materials ready and collaboration with security agencies in place to ensure a free, fair, and credible election.
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The State Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, also guaranteed that law enforcement agencies would provide adequate security to protect voters and ensure a smooth electoral process.
In response, Mr. Udochukwu Egwim of the South Sahara Social Development Organization (SSDO) said IPAC is committed to ensuring all political parties sign the peace accord before election day.
