Five political parties and their candidates for the forthcoming by-election in Ibadan North Federal Constituency have signed a peace accord ahead of the August 16 poll.
The accord was signed yesterday at the Oyo State headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The candidates who signed the agreement are Dexter Femi Akin-Alamu, African Democratic Congress (ADC); Adewale Haastrup Olatunji, All Progressives Congress (APC); Olabisi Olajumoke Odususi, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA); Fola Sunday Oyekunle, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Hammed Badmus, Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
The leaders of the political parties, security chiefs and other stakeholders attended the event.
The bye-election is billed for Saturday.
The electionis to fill the vacant position created by the demise of the last occupant of the seat, Hon Musliudeen Olaide Akinremi.
Akinremi died last year at the age of 51.
While addressing the gathering, Resident Electoral Commissioner Dr Adeniran Rahmon Tella noted that the peace accord became necessary to ensure a free and fair election.
He added that the commission was committed to conducting a credible election.
Tella encouraged the candidates and their supporters to maintain a high decorum and sportsmanship throughout the electoral process.
He said, “On behalf of the Independent National Electoral Commission, it is my pleasure to welcome you all to this significant event, the official signing of the Peace Accord for Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election.
“This gathering demonstrates your commitment to promoting peace, stability and credibility in the electoral process. The signing of this Peace Accord is a crucial step towards ensuring a free, fair and transparent election.
“As we embark on this critical process. I urge all stakeholders to adhere to the principles outlined in the Peace Accord. Let us work together to create an environment that allows voters to exercise their rights without fear or intimidation.”
