Parties, candidates, supporters warned as stakeholders sign peace accord
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command has warned political parties, candidates and their supporters against political violence, thuggery, hate speech, vote buying and other acts capable of disrupting the peace of the state.
The warning was issued by the Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, on Wednesday during the signing of the Akwa Ibom State Political Parties Peace Accord for 2026/2027.
The event brought together representatives of political parties, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, traditional and religious institutions, civil society organisations and the media.
Azare described the peace accord as a collective commitment to preserving peace and strengthening democratic stability in the state.
He stressed that political rivalry must be conducted within the confines of the law, warning that no political ambition should be pursued through intimidation, misinformation, destruction of property or threats to human life.
The police commissioner also charged political leaders to take responsibility for the conduct of their members and supporters, insisting that the task of ensuring peaceful elections could not be left to security agencies alone.
He urged political parties to extend the terms of the peace accord to their candidates, party officials, campaign organisations, agents, youth groups and other supporters.
While assuring stakeholders of the command’s professionalism, impartiality and non-partisanship, Azare warned that the police would deal decisively with any individual or group attempting to exploit political activities to cause violence or disrupt public order.
He said political disputes must be resolved through lawful and democratic institutions rather than confrontation or self-help.
Azare also appealed to youths and other residents to reject attempts by politicians to recruit or use them for violence.
“Akwa Ibom State is greater than any individual, political party or ambition,” the police commissioner said.
He called for sustained cooperation among political parties, INEC, security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, the media and the electorate throughout the electoral cycle.
