The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth League has criticized the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for its refusal to sign a peace accord ahead of the Edo State gubernatorial election.
In a statement signed by the National President of the APC Youth League, Comrade Olamide Lawal, he expressed concern and disappointment over the PDP’s decision to abstain from the peace pact, which is meant to reassure voters of a non-violent election process.
“We are alarmed that the PDP has refused to participate in signing the peace accord, a crucial step for political parties in Nigerian elections. This raises concerns about their commitment to peaceful elections and hints at a potential for unrest,” Lawal said.
He called on the PDP to reconsider its position, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace for the sake of Nigeria’s democracy. Lawal also urged security agencies to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
According to Lawal, “The youths of Edo State will hold Governor Godwin Obaseki accountable for any disturbances during the election. His refusal to sign the peace accord, despite benefiting from it in the past, signals an attempt to undermine peace efforts in the state.”
Lawal appealed to other stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security forces, and civil society organizations, to intervene and pressure the PDP to reassure the electorate of a peaceful election through both words and actions.
He also praised other parties that signed the peace accord, stating that they have shown their commitment to democratic values, which will encourage voter participation and reduce apathy.
The APC Youth League reiterated its dedication to ensuring a peaceful election in Edo State and warned that any attempt by the PDP to incite violence would be met with resistance from its members.
They further called on Edo voters to remain vigilant in the coming days, as the actions of Governor Obaseki and the PDP have raised suspicions about their intentions for the election.
