Ahead of Saturday November 16, 2024 governorship election in Ondo State, the Inter Party Advisory Council, (IPAC), has warned candidates in the election to shun any temptation of manipulating the poll.
The National Chairman, Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Yusuf M. Dantalle, gave the warning on tuesday November 12, in Akure, the Ondo State, at the Stakeholders’ Engagement And Voters Sensitization Press Conference Towards A Peaceful, Transparent & Inclusive Ondo State Off-season Governorship Election.
Dantalle pointed out that the will of the electorates should be sacrosanct and respected by all the contestants.
The IPAC national chairman urged Voters to come out enmass to exercise their franchise.
Dantalle said, “to the voters in the State, we urge you to exercise your civic duty without hindrance. Vote for the candidates of your choice, based on their manifesto, track record, and leadership qualities. Reject any form of vote buying, as it undermines the integrity of our democracy.
“To the contestants, we urge you to know that the will of the electorates is sacrosanct and should be respected. The decision to choose leaders rests squarely on the shoulders of the people and that is what makes democracy unique.
“Therefore, contestants in any election must resist the temptation to manipulate the process or attempt to force themselves on the people. Leadership should be selfless service to the people and if that is the case, no responsible leader would want to force himself or herself on the people.
“To the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies, we appeal to you, to remain neutral and impartial. Ensure a level playing field for all political parties and candidates. Your roles are critical in maintaining the trust and confidence of the electorate.
“As you already know, the Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) is the umbrella body of all registered and recognized political parties in Nigeria and a critical stakeholder in the national democratic process.
“The body is set up in recognition of the role of political parties in consolidating and deepening democracy as well asensuring a conducive environment for successful elections, political stability, enduring democracy, good governance and well-being of Nigerians.
“IPAC is structured at National, State and Local Government Areas, in order to ensure that all levels and tiers of
government are carried along in the electoral and democratic process.
“Today’s stakeholders’ engagement is targeted towards a peaceful,
transparent & inclusive up-coming Ondo State governorship election. Recall that a few days ago, stakeholders also came together to sign a peace pact as one of the strategies to achieve a peaceful
electoral process.
“We hope that the respective political parties and candidates of the forth coming election respect the peace accord by playing by the rules of the game. Ahead of every election, IPAC bring stakeholders together to see the need to ensure that the exercise is conducted in line with the
books, openly, and consistent with the extant laws.
“Therefore, as we approach this important electoral process, it is imperative that we emphasize the significance of conducting a free, fair, and peaceful election. Stakeholders must all play by the rules, adhering to the electoral guidelines, constitution, and electoral act.
“To the voters in the State, we urge you to exercise your civic duty without hindrance. Vote for the candidates of your choice, based on their manifesto, track record, and leadership qualities. Reject any form of vote buying, as it undermines the integrity of our democracy.
“We need to see the neutrality of the respective institutions to promote our nascent democracy. And to all stakeholders, let us remember, election is not war! It is simply an exercise in a democracy, where we choose leaders who will promote good governance, accountability, and development.
“As stakeholders, we must prioritize peace, equity, and justice. Let us work together to create an environment conducive to credible elections.
“In conclusion, I urge all stakeholders to adhere to the principles of democracy, respect the rights of others, and prioritize the interest of Ondo people and Nigeria in general. Join us as we work towards deepening democracy in Nigeria!”
