The buildup to the Edo State election has been fraught with drama, casting a shadow over hopes for a peaceful election on September 21. Concerns over escalating tensions prompted the signing of a peace accord between political parties to ensure that peace and order are maintained during the electoral process. However, the chances of a peaceful election have diminished further after the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) refused to sign the peace accord.
PDP Refuses to Sign Peace Accord
Former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar, head of the National Peace Committee, made the announcement on Thursday at the venue of the peace accord signing in Benin. He revealed that the PDP declined to sign the agreement, stating that the party would only do so if certain conditions were met.
During a meeting with Governor Godwin Obaseki on Wednesday, Abubakar noted that the governor had hinted at the PDP’s reluctance to sign the peace accord. The party reportedly cited bias as the reason for its refusal.
Conditions for PDP’s Participation
“They had made some observations, and I was expecting the chairman of the PDP to come and make that statement,” Abubakar said. “Having waited for him this long, he chose to announce that the PDP said they are not going to sign and they have got some conditions. They said that after these conditions have been met, they will come to Abuja and sign.”
Governor Obaseki also raised concerns about potential bias from the police force tasked with maintaining peace during the election. He suggested that the police might act in favor of the All Progressives Congress (APC), further justifying the PDP’s hesitation.
Mixed Participation in the Peace Accord
Despite the PDP’s refusal, other political parties signed the peace accord. These included the APC and its candidate, Mr. Monday Okpebholo, as well as the Labour Party and its candidate, Olumide Akpata. However, the absence of the PDP and its candidate, Mr. Asue Ighodalo, casts a cloud of uncertainty over the upcoming election.
Conclusion
As tensions remain high and trust in key institutions is questioned, the path to a peaceful election in Edo State remains uncertain. The lack of consensus, particularly with the PDP’s refusal to sign the peace accord, raises concerns about potential conflicts during the voting process. The coming days will determine whether these issues can be resolved before the election date.
