Niger: Political parties sign peace accord ahead of November 1 local government elections
Ahead of the November 1, 2025, local government elections, political parties in Niger State have signed a peace accord to ensure a free, fair, and credible electoral process.
The accord was signed during a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman, in Minna.
In attendance were representatives of political parties and their aspirants, led by the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, Chairman, Niger State Chapter, Hon. Isah Mohammed Bello Makujeri. Other stakeholders included the Chairman of the Niger State Independent Electoral Commission, NSIEC, Engr. Mohammed Jubril Imam; the Special Adviser to the State Governor on Political Affairs, Hon. Nma Kolo; representatives of other security agencies; area commanders; and divisional police officers.
The CP explained that the meeting aimed to promote maturity, responsibility, and a collective commitment to peace among stakeholders. Elleman assured that the police command is fully prepared to provide a secure and peaceful environment for the election, stressing professionalism and neutrality.
He stated, “The Police Command and other security agencies, in partnership with SIEC, have made comprehensive arrangements to provide a secure and peaceful environment for the election.”
He admonished youths and party supporters to serve as ambassadors of peace by refraining from being used as tools for electoral violence or disruption.
The NSIEC chairman, in his remarks, outlined a 15-point agenda containing guidelines for the election, aimed at producing 25 local government chairmen and 274 councillors from 4,950 polling units across 274 wards in 25 LGAs. He urged all participants to take the peace accord seriously and abide by its provisions, describing it as an oath.
The IPAC chairman commended NSIEC for providing ample time—six months—for adequate preparations and praised stakeholders for maintaining peace throughout the process.
He stated, “In line with the mandate of the governor, it is expected that whosoever wins the election should be declared a winner to ensure a smooth and credible process.”
The peace accord includes provisions discouraging religious sentiment, ethnic or tribal profiling, inflammatory statements, and actions likely to incite violence. It also mandates the monitoring of adherence to the accord by all parties.
Representatives and candidates from political parties across the LGAs signed the accord and pledged their commitment to a free and fair election.
The CP appreciated all stakeholders for their cooperation and commitment to peace, wishing them success in the polls and safe journeys to their destinations.
