The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has charged political parties and their supporters to embrace peace, tolerance and issue-based campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Elections, warning that the Police and other security agencies will not tolerate violence, thuggery or any attempt to undermine the democratic process.
A statement signed by the command public relations officer DSP Timfon John said the CP gave the charge today during the signing of the Akwa Ibom State Political Parties Peace Accord 2026/2027, an initiative designed to foster peaceful political engagement and strengthen collective commitment to a violence-free electoral process in the State.
The event brought together leaders and representatives of political parties, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), heads and representatives of sister security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, members of the media and other stakeholders.
Speaking at the ceremony, CP Azare described the Peace Accord as “a solemn demonstration of our collective determination to protect the peace, security and democratic stability of Akwa Ibom State.”
He stressed that political competition is fundamental to democracy but must be conducted within the bounds of the law.
“Political competition is an essential part of democracy, but it must remain peaceful, lawful and issue-based. No political ambition should be pursued through violence, intimidation, thuggery, hate speech, misinformation, vote buying or the destruction of lives and property.”
The Commissioner called on political leaders to take full responsibility for the conduct of their members and supporters, emphasising that the responsibility for peaceful elections does not rest on security agencies alone.
He urged political parties to ensure that the commitment made at the signing ceremony filters down to every level of their structures, including candidates, party officials, campaign organisations, agents, youth groups and supporters.
He assured stakeholders that the Police would remain professional, impartial and non-partisan in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.
“We shall discharge our responsibilities professionally, fairly and without fear or favour.”
The CP, however, warned that the Command would respond decisively to individuals or groups who attempt to exploit political activities to cause violence, disrupt public order or threaten the lives and property of citizens.
He stated that political disagreements must be resolved through lawful institutions and established democratic mechanisms rather than through confrontation, violence or self-help.
The Commissioner further challenged political party leaders to ensure that the Peace Accord does not become merely a ceremonial document.
“The true value of this Accord will be measured by our conduct before, during and after the elections.”
He urged all signatories to demonstrate genuine commitment by controlling their members and supporters, respecting political opponents, cooperating with INEC and security agencies, and rejecting every form of conduct capable of threatening the peace of the State.
CP Azare also appealed to youths and other citizens not to allow themselves to be recruited or manipulated into political violence.
He warned that no individual or political interest should be allowed to endanger the lives, peace and prosperity of the people of Akwa Ibom State.
The Commissioner reminded political actors that, irrespective of political affiliation, all stakeholders share a common responsibility to protect the State.
“Akwa Ibom State is greater than any individual, political party or ambition. We may belong to different political platforms, but we share one State and one responsibility to preserve its peace.”
He called for sustained collaboration among political parties, INEC, security agencies, traditional institutions, religious leaders, civil society organisations, the media and the electorate throughout the electoral cycle.
The Commissioner expressed appreciation to all political parties and stakeholders for embracing the Peace Accord and reaffirmed the Command’s readiness to work with all relevant institutions to ensure that political activities in Akwa Ibom State remain peaceful, lawful and orderly.
