By Terdue Atondu, Makurdi
The Benue State Police Command has hosted leaders and candidates of political parties, heads of sister security agencies and other stakeholders at a Peace Accord signing ceremony aimed at promoting peaceful political activities and sustaining security across the state.
The engagement, held in Makurdi, brought together state chairmen of political parties, candidates, representatives of security and law enforcement agencies and other relevant stakeholders.
In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Orchia Peter Aondongu, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, the Command said participants reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful campaigns, respect for the rule of law and protection of lives and property throughout the electoral period.
Addressing the gathering, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Cletus C. N. Nwadiogbu, urged political leaders and candidates to ensure that their supporters conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly.
Nwadiogbu particularly warned political actors against recruiting or using political thugs, cult groups and other criminal elements to intimidate opponents or disrupt lawful political activities.
He stressed the need for all stakeholders to work with security agencies to ensure that political campaigns and other electoral activities are conducted peacefully and within the provisions of the law.
The participating political parties and candidates subsequently signed the Peace Accord, signifying their collective commitment to reject political violence, respect the rights of other political actors and cooperate with security agencies throughout the electoral process.
The Commissioner assured political parties and candidates that the Police Command would remain professional, impartial and committed to providing adequate security for all lawful political activities.
He also urged stakeholders to maintain effective communication with the Police and other security agencies, particularly regarding planned rallies, campaigns and other major political events.
The Command called on political leaders, candidates, supporters and the general public to uphold the spirit of the Peace Accord and work collectively towards peaceful and credible political activities in Benue State.
