A two-day seminar aimed at promoting violence-free elections has commenced in Akwa Ibom State, with stakeholders calling on youths to shun electoral violence before, during, and after the 2027 general elections.

The seminar, themed “Promoting Peaceful, Free, Fair and Credible Elections in Akwa Ibom State” was organised by the Akwa Ibom State Government in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services and held in Uyo.

Declaring the event open, the State Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, commended the prevailing peace and hospitality in the state and urged security agencies, political parties, youth groups, and other critical stakeholders to build on that foundation to sustain a peaceful atmosphere throughout the electoral period.

In his remarks, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Muhammad Azare, pledged the command’s neutrality, professionalism, and commitment to high ethical standards in policing the electoral process.

The seminar, which continues today, will feature paper presentations from various security outfits, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and other key stakeholders on strategies for peaceful elections.

Organizers say the initiative is part of efforts to deepen civic engagement and ensure that Akwa Ibom remains a model for credible and violence-free elections in 2027.

The State Director of DSS, who was also present, warned politicians against inciting violence and recruiting youths as thugs, stressing that the service would not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone who attempts to disrupt the peace of the state.

On his part, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, in the state, reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to conducting transparent elections, noting that the commission has put measures in place to ensure that votes count and that technology will be deployed to enhance credibility.

Some youth leaders and representatives of political parties who spoke at the event pledged to sensitise their members on the need to embrace peace, dialogue and tolerance.

They however called on government and security agencies to ensure a level playing field for all contestants to avoid provocation and apathy.

Participants at the seminar expressed optimism that with sustained engagement and collaboration among stakeholders, the 2027 general elections in Akwa Ibom would be peaceful and credible.