Olusegun Ariyo
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has said that the police will provide a level playing ground for all political parties participating in the September 21 governorship election in Edo State.
Egbetokun made this promise on Thursday in Benin during the signing of a peace accord by political parties and their candidates ahead of the election.
The national peace committee led by Abubakar Abdulsalami, a former military head of state, initiated the peace accord.
However, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governorship candidate refused to sign the peace accord.
The candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Monday Okpebholo, his Labour Party, LP, counterpart, Olumide Akpata and other political parties signed the peace accord.
According to the IGP, the police will be neutral and professional, stressing that all stakeholders must work together to achieve a conducive environment for the poll.
“I’m here today to reaffirm our commitment to a peaceful and secure electoral process.
“We recognise the importance of this moment and the trust placed on us to protect the integrity of this election.
“We will remain impartial, professional, and vigilant while providing a level playing ground for political parties and their candidates.
“I urge all stakeholders to embrace peace, tolerance, and respect. Let’s work together to create a conducive environment for a free, fair, and peaceful election, where every voter can exercise their rights to vote without fear and intimidation,” the IGP said.
