Governor Samuel Ortom, alongside other governorship candidates in Benue, signed a peace agreement today, pledging to ensure peaceful elections on February 16th and March 2nd, 2019.
The Governor reassured the people of Benue of his commitment to a peaceful and transparent electoral process, expressing hope that the agreement would foster peace among the candidates and political parties. He emphasized that violence is unnecessary for winning elections, as leadership is ordained by God, and no one can alter that.
Governor Ortom also pointed out that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies play a critical role in maintaining peace during the elections. He urged these bodies to remain neutral, professional, and resist any external pressure that could compromise the process, ensuring that the rule of law prevails.
INEC Commissioner Yilwada Nantawe explained that the peace accord was needed due to the incidents of violence during the 2015 elections in Benue. He noted that INEC would work with traditional rulers, youth groups, religious leaders, and women to ensure a peaceful election in 2019.
Tor Tiv, James Ayatse, called on political figures to honor the peace agreement by conducting issue-based campaigns. He warned that those who sign the agreement but incite trouble afterward would face consequences.
The State Commissioner of Police, Omololu Bishi, assured the public that the Police would remain professional and ensure peace before, during, and after the elections. He stated that the Police would not hesitate to arrest and prosecute anyone involved in electoral violence.
