NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi on Tuesday signed the first National Peace Accord ahead of the 2027 Presidential Elections, pledging to run a campaign centered on issues and non-violence.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Obi said his commitment was to ensure candidates and their supporters conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the office they seek.
“Leaders must eschew all forms of violent rhetoric and rein in their followers to do the same,” Obi stated. “Those of us wishing to be addressed as ‘His Excellency’ must behave excellently, and, more importantly, the process of attaining public office must be excellent.”
Obi listed the priorities he wants to dominate the 2027 contest: national unity, insecurity, poverty reduction, reducing the number of out-of-school children, and restoring hope to Nigerians.
He added that the elections must be “strictly based on the issues that matter to Nigerians” and be free of rancour.
The NDC candidate also expressed confidence in the institutions overseeing the vote.
“We take very seriously the commitment of INEC to free, fair, and credible elections, as well as the pledge by law enforcement agencies to remain unbiased throughout the electioneering process,” he said.
Obi directed a final message to his supporters, urging them to “remain firm, determined, and peaceful.”
The National Peace Accord, signed by other presidential candidates present, is designed to commit political parties to peaceful campaigning and acceptance of election results in 2027.
