The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has called for an inclusive electoral process in Ebonyi State, urging relevant authorities to ensure that every registered political party is fairly represented in the forthcoming local government elections.
The appeal was made by the Director-General of IPAC and National Chairman of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), Prince Chinedu Obi, during the inauguration of the newly elected IPAC executive in Abakaliki.
Obi commended the Ebonyi State Government led by Governor Francis Nwifuru for establishing a full-fledged ministry to oversee inter-party affairs, describing the initiative as a landmark step toward strengthening Nigeria's democratic process.
"I now see the need for the Inter-Party Advisory Council to be recognised to the extent that a whole ministry has been established to handle inter-party matters.
I believe Ebonyi is the only state that has taken this bold step, and it is something we sincerely appreciate and commend the government for," he said.
The IPAC Director-General also challenged the newly elected State Chairman of the council, Mrs Queendaline Nwigwe whom he described as a mother and leader, to promote unity and inclusiveness among political parties in the state.
"We are placing the leadership of all political parties (IPAC) in your hands. We want to see you extend the governor's inclusive leadership style by ensuring that all political parties are carried along in the democratic process," Obi stated.
He specifically appealed to the Commissioner in charge of Inter-Party Affairs, Mr Philip Okorie; the newly elected IPAC leadership and other relevant government officials to work towards a local government electoral process that would provide equitable representation for all political parties.
"Our request is that, in the next local government election, every political party should have representation in the councils at least. We believe Governor Francis Nwifuru is magnanimous enough to support this inclusive vision. We want Ebonyi to become a model of inclusive democracy for the rest of Nigeria," he added.
Speaking with journalists after the event, the Chairman of the National Rescue Movement (NRM) in Ebonyi State and the re-elected IPAC Organising Secretary, Hon. Ogodo Stanley, described the election that produced the new executive members as peaceful, transparent and credible.
"I thank God and all stakeholders. The election was peaceful, transparent and a true reflection of democratic values. It has strengthened confidence in IPAC," Ogodo said.
According to him, his re-election for a second term reflects the growing relevance of the NRM in Ebonyi State and demonstrates the importance of collaboration among political parties in deepening democracy.
He commended the IPAC national leadership for conducting what he described as a transparent and credible electoral process.
"The national leadership demonstrated fairness, professionalism and credibility. Their transparent supervision has further enhanced confidence in IPAC," he said.
On preparations for future elections, Ogodo expressed optimism that credible polls were achievable through sustained voter education, peaceful campaigns and equal opportunities for all political parties.
"Our priority is to strengthen cooperation among political parties, encourage constructive dialogue, uphold internal democracy and promote issue-based politics," he said.
The NRM chairman disclosed that the party had intensified preparations for the next general election, noting that it had strengthened its structures across the state and was mobilising members while preparing credible candidates for elective offices.
He said the party had prospective candidates for the National Assemblies down to the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, expressing confidence that its growing grassroots support and commitment to good governance would translate into electoral success.
Ogodo said that NRM remained committed to offering people-centred leadership anchored on transparency, youth empowerment, quality education, economic development, accountability and the rule of law.
He appealed to members and supporters of the party to remain united and disciplined while also calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and other stakeholders to remain impartial in the discharge of their responsibilities.
"I appeal to INEC, security agencies and all stakeholders to remain neutral, uphold the rule of law and ensure free, fair, credible and peaceful elections," he said.
