The race for the Edo state government house has gained the attention of the European Union.

In a report by NAN, The EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Ketil Karlsen, urged politicians to show restraints in their quest for power during a visit to Benin, the capital of Edo state.

In his meeting with Chief Dan Orbih, state Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and leaders of the party, Karlsen preached peace and tolerance.

The EU ambassador further appealed for peace in the forthcoming Edo governorship election, adding that the EU was also meeting with other political parties on the same message.

Karlsen also advocated collaborative effort in order to amend the electoral law while pledging EU’s willingness to support the process.

He explained that the EU has over 3,000 projects across the Niger Delta and was partnering with Edo Government on many projects.

Karlsen also noted the role of the EU in the repatriation of youths trapped along illegal migrants routes and rehabilitating them to cut the illegal trade.

The ambassador emphasised the importance of the opposition in democratic consolidation.

He disclosed that since the restoration of democracy in 1999, the EU had spent more than 100 million Euros to support various democratic institutions.

Karlsen listed such institutions as INEC, political parties, Civil Society and Media, including deploying hundreds of long and short term observers and giving recommendations on the electoral processes.

He noted that the EU would remain impartial in its operations and urged parties and politicians to allow for transparent primaries, more participation by women and the youth, as well as to desist from hate speech.

The call for peace and no violence is coming days after attacks on top politicians in Edo state – especially between  Governor Obaseki and APC chairman, Adams Oshiomhole.