The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Edo State, Asue Ighodalo, has stated that his party will sign the peace accord with other political parties once specific conditions set by the party are met by the Federal Government and the Nigeria Police Force.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Ighodalo expressed concern over the arrest and detention of some PDP members without charges being brought against them.
He emphasized that the release or proper charging of these individuals is crucial before the party can agree to the peace accord.
“We had a number of conditions, most of which have now been met, except one. Many of our guys have been held unjustly. We think if you hold guys, you either charge them or you let them go on bail. Once that is achieved, we will sign the peace accord,” Ighodalo said.
Ighodalo also explained that the lack of a level playing field was initially a key reason for the PDP’s refusal to sign the peace accord, pointing to harassment and intimidation of his party’s supporters.
However, he noted that Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has now given assurances of neutrality, improving the situation for the PDP.
“We saw thugs from the other party on TV with weapons, none of those guys were arrested. Of course, we had reasons to feel strongly harassed and intimidated. But today, we feel a bit better. The Inspector General has assured us of a level playing field,” he added.
The peace accord, a traditional pre-election agreement in Nigeria to promote nonviolence, was signed by all other parties contesting in the September 21 Edo governorship election.
However, the PDP declined to participate, with Tony Aziegbemi, PDP chairman in Edo, leaving the venue in protest over the arrest of a party member, Collins Aigbogu, the chairman of Esan West Local Government Area. Aigbogu had been detained without being released, prompting the PDP to delay signing the peace pact.
