In anticipation of the Plateau State Local Government Council elections scheduled for October 9, 2024, 11 political parties have come together to sign a peace accord, reaffirming their commitment to a peaceful electoral process. The event, organized by the Plateau Peace Building Agency (PPBA) in collaboration with the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), was held on October 3, 2024, at Tamerald Event Center in Jos.
Retired High Court Judge, Justice Daniel Longji, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the importance of peace during the elections. In his presentation titled “The Imperative for Peaceful Local Government Elections in Plateau State,” Longji urged politicians to avoid violence and adhere to the rules of the election process.
“There are peaceful methods of resolving disputes. Violence is unnecessary,” Justice Longji stated, addressing political leaders. “Politicians must preach peace to their members and discourage the sponsorship of violence. Personal interest should never come at the expense of peace. Let us remember that peace is key to development.”
Justice Longji called for restraint and self-control among party leaders and supporters, stressing that disruptions to the democratic process would only harm the progress Plateau State has made under its current administration.
Dr. Julie Sanda, Director General of PPBA, highlighted the challenges posed by inflammatory language and hate speech during campaign rallies. She stressed the need for issue-based campaigns that foster unity, warning that divisive rhetoric could threaten the peace that has been built in Plateau State.
“It is essential that political competition remains respectful and non-violent,” Dr. Sanda remarked. “We must reject all forms of hate speech, manipulation, and violence. Our shared responsibility is to ensure that the upcoming elections further consolidate peace and promote inclusive governance.”
Dr. Sanda also emphasized the role of election observers and stakeholders in ensuring the transparency and credibility of the electoral process. She urged political parties to adhere to peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms and due process throughout the election period.
PLASIEC Chairman, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, commended the collaborative effort between government institutions, particularly PPBA, to ensure peaceful elections. He noted that political parties’ active participation in the process was a testament to PLASIEC’s transparency. “Unlike previous elections where only one or two political parties participated, 11 parties are now contesting, which shows increased confidence in the process,” he said.
Cishak also revealed that PLASIEC has made substantial progress in preparation for the elections, completing 19 of 22 key activities. He assured the public of the commission’s commitment to conducting transparent and peaceful elections, noting innovations such as a new voter verification system developed by PLASIEC after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) denied them access to the BVAS system.
The peace accord signing, which marks a significant step towards maintaining stability during the elections, was welcomed by political leaders, CSOs, stakeholders, and citizens alike, reaffirming their commitment to preventing election-related violence and promoting democratic values across Plateau State.
With the local government elections fast approaching, the peace accord serves as a critical reminder of the need for unity and mutual respect among all political actors to ensure a peaceful and successful election day.