Ahead of the Anambra Governorship election, the contesting candidates have signed a peace accord in Awka, the state captial, to assure the public of a free and fair election.
The ceremony which was organised by the National Peace Commotte was attended by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu.
The election is billed to hold on November 6, 2021.
In the past few weeks, there have been several attacks by groups of gunmen, targeting electoral officers and security agents in a bid to sabotage the electoral process.
The attacks have caused many to doubt the safety of the long-awaited election as the proscribed group, Independent People of Biafra (IPOB) have declared a sit-at-home on that day in solidarity with their leader, Nnamdi Kanu who is in custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).
However, the Federal Government has beefed up security in the state, pledging a free and fair poll.
On Tuesday, Senate minority leader, Enyinnaya Abaribe urged voters to show up at the polls, noting that the elections will be safe.
Chronicle NG reported that the United States government threatened sanctions including Visa restrictions on anyone who interferes with the democratic process or incites violence during the forthcoming Anambra State gubernatorial election on Saturday.
The US issued the warning in a statement on Wednesday by the Public Affairs Section of the United States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria.
The US government also warned that certain violations may also lead to restrictions on relatives of the electoral offenders and the families of those who may instigate violence at the polls.
“We will be paying close attention to actions of individuals who interfere with the democratic process or instigate violence against civilian populations before, during, or after the elections.
“We will not hesitate to consider consequences – including visa restrictions – for those found to be responsible for election-related violence or undermining the democratic process.
Anambra Polls: DSS warns media houses to stop coverage of terrorist, separatist attacks
“Under U.S. immigration law, certain violations also may lead to restrictions on family members,”
