As Ondo State prepares for its governorship election on Saturday, November 16, 2024, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful electoral process. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the IPCR emphasized that a violence-free election is crucial for maintaining both the credibility of the process and its acceptance by the local and international communities.

The IPCR, led by Director-General Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, stressed the importance of a robust sensitization campaign to promote peace during the election. “A peaceful election is key to ensuring the viability and sustainability of our democratic systems,” Dr. Ochogwu said. “It is essential that all efforts focus on achieving a calm, secure, and credible process for the good of the people of Ondo State and the nation as a whole.”

The institute also highlighted the significant strides made in Nigeria’s democratic process over the past 25 years, noting the importance of maintaining the peace that has contributed to the stability of the electoral system. This, the IPCR stated, is a vital factor in promoting socio-economic and political development across the country.

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In its call for peace, the IPCR recommended several actions to prevent violence during the election. The institute urged political parties and candidates to avoid inflammatory language and hate speech that could escalate tensions leading up to the vote. It also called on the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons to step up efforts to curb the spread of illegal arms before, during, and after the election.

Additionally, the IPCR praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its ongoing efforts to prepare for a credible election. With the election date approaching, the IPCR urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure a smooth, peaceful process that will contribute to the continued success of Nigeria’s democratic journey.