In a surprising move, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced its decision not to sign the peace accord aimed at ensuring a smooth and peaceful governorship election in Edo State. The decision came just two hours before the signing ceremony, catching many by surprise.

The peace accord, scheduled ahead of the September 21 election, was designed to promote a non-violent and orderly electoral process among all participating political parties. However, APC’s withdrawal has raised concerns about the upcoming election.

Earlier, Governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) had expressed doubts about signing the peace accord. He explained that the PDP had lost trust in the ability of the police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a fair election.

During a press conference at the APC’s office, Emperor Jarret Tenebe, a party representative, revealed that APC’s decision was influenced by a tragic incident that occurred two months ago. Onuh Akor, a police inspector assigned to Senator Monday Okpebholo, the APC candidate, was shot and killed on Airport Road. Despite the seriousness of the crime, no one has been arrested or prosecuted, leading the party to question the security measures in place for the election.

As the election day approaches, many will be watching closely to see how these developments impact the electoral process and security.