2019 Elections: 64 candidates sign peace pact in Kaduna

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By Mohammad Tijjani

#TTrackNigeria: A total of 64 candidates for the forthcoming general election in Kaduna State, on Tuesday signed a peace pact with a pledge to let the will of the people prevail.The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was organised by the Kaduna State Police Command as part of its citizens engagements to ensure violence free, fair and credible elections.NAN also reports that 26 of those that signed the pact are contesting for the state governorship seat while 38 are senatorial candidates.Among the political parties that attended the event were the All Progressive Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Accord Party (AP) and Social Democratic Party (SDP)  among others.Ahmad Abdurrahman, the Commissioner of Police in the state, said it was important for the principal actors in the elections to give a commitment to a peaceful, free, fair and credible polls.According to him, the police organised the event because it is desirous of peaceful transition of political power in the country.” This Peace Accord signifies our respective commitment to peace and symbolizes respect for the rule of law.” I implore you all to do the needful by signing this accord with the command, to work together in our respective ways towards achieving a peaceful atmosphere within which violence-free and credible elections can be achieved.”He cautioned the politicians against desperation for power through any means, and avoid smear campaigns, character assassination or inciting one group, tribe and religion against another for cheap political gain.The police commissioner said politicians must regard elections as “a contest of ideas, battle of winning majority votes and the hearts and minds of the people, the selling of feasible policies and programs for bettering the lives of the electorates.”Abdurrahman pledged that the command would ensure level playing ground and adequate security to all.“I want to emphasize that a violence free election is a fundamental means to sustainable peace and development.“In ensuring a peaceful and successful election, the behaviour of politicians and party members is crucial.” I want to suggest that, candidates and supporters must accept the outcome as announced by the constituted authorities, rather than make trouble just because the results are not in one’s favour.”He also cautioned against inciting celebrations by winners, to avoid confrontation. “As security agents, we will be firm but fair; we will not be seen to be siding with any party or candidate.“We shall enforce the rule in accordance with the dictates of the extant laws,” the police commissioner stressed. (NAN)

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