Political parties and their candidates for the September 19 governorship election in Edo state signed a peace pact on Tuesday.
The pact, organised by the National Peace Committee (NPC), took place in Benin city, the state capital.
Godwin Obaseki and Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the two major contenders and candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and All Progressives Congress (APC) respectively, vowed to live up to the peace pact.
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Obaseki, who is seeking reelection, however, asked the NPC to reach out to some political actors whom he said wield much influence and are interested in the election.
The governor explained that the move is necessary in order not to let the exercise end in futility.
“I want to commit publicly once again that I will live by the letter and spirit of the accord that has just been signed,” Obaseki said.
“Before leaving the stage, I want to appeal to the National Peace Committee not to end their work with the signing of this accord.
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“There are other actors in the political space who will have and exercise influence in the political space and also elections to reach out to them to persuade them about the importance of this accord we have just signed.”
On his part, Ize-Iyamu pledged that his party leaders will talk to their supporters to eschew violence before, during and after the polls.
“Let me reaffirm to our commitment to what has been signed and to reassure Nigerians that and particularly our people in Edo State that we will talk to all our supporters,” Ize-Iyamu said.
“We will conduct ourselves peacefully. We will do all our best to ensure that the election is peaceful.”
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He commended Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, for his efforts to promote peace, especially during the election.
The pact was signed by Obaseki, Ize-Iyamu and 12 other candidates.
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