NEWS UPDATE
Key takeaways from the signing of the Peace Accord by candidates of political parties ahead of the August 15th Osun State Governorship election.
1. Activities:
– When: Thursday, July 30, 2026
– Who organized: National Peace Committee (NPC)
– Who presided: NPC convener, Rev. Matthew Kukah
– NPC Chairman: Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd) – represented by Gen. Martin Agwai
2. Who signed:
– 14 political parties contesting the August 15 governorship election signed the accord.
3. Major messages from leaders:
– Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar: “No electoral victory is worth the loss of a single life.” Called for restraint, civility, and rejection of violence, hate speech, and misinformation.
– Rev. Matthew Kukah: Said the accord is a “solemn commitment”. Called on INEC to be impartial, security to be fair, traditional/religious leaders to promote peace, and media/CSOs to encourage responsible discourse.
• Cardinal John Onaiyekan: Urged stakeholders to treat the accord seriously.
• IGP Olatunji Disu – represented by AIG Fasuba Olabode: Assured adequate security, neutrality, and officers deployed from neighboring states.
– INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan: Said the accord is a “moral commitment”. Urged strict adherence.
– Gov. Ademola Adeleke: Attended out of respect for peace. Expressed concern over rising political tension.
– Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi: Urged actors to shun violence and voters not to sell their conscience.
4. Core commitments:
– Non-violent campaigns
– Respect for rule of law
– Issue-based politics
– Acceptance of results through constitutional channels
– Peace before, during and after election.
