Edo Politics: IPAC Pledges to Deepen Democracy in Edo, Elects New Chairman
From Osazua IMAFIDON (Benin)
The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Edo State chapter, has pledged to strengthen and deepen democratic practice in the state with the emergence of a new leadership.
The pledge was made on Wednesday in Benin by the newly elected chairman of the council, Dr Bishop Akhalamhen, shortly after he emerged winner of the IPAC chairmanship election.
Dr Akhalamhen described IPAC as the conscience of democracy in Nigeria, noting its critical role in promoting peace and harmony before, during and after elections.
He said a united and functional IPAC was essential to the conduct of credible and peaceful elections.
“When things are right in IPAC, everything will be fine. Now that I have taken over the mantle of leadership, this is a new dawn for IPAC in Edo State,” he said.
According to him, the council under his leadership would continue to work with relevant stakeholders to promote peaceful, transparent and credible elections in the state.
“We will add our voices to ensure peaceful and credible elections in Edo State. With our presence and commitment, we will make a positive impact by uniting the various political parties.
"Going forward, elections conducted in Edo State will be peaceful and will serve as a model for other states,” Akhalamhen said.
He further stressed that IPAC would intensify efforts to enlighten political parties and residents of the state on the importance of the council and its role in sustaining democracy.
“Henceforth, you will see that elections in Edo State will be the most peaceful in Nigeria because the foundation of peaceful elections in the country is IPAC.
"That is why I describe IPAC as the conscience of democracy. It is a new dawn for Edo State and for IPAC,” he added.
Earlier, the Electoral Chairman of IPAC in the state, Mr Lucky Akomire, advised the new chairman to prioritise unity and guard against internal conflicts in order to build a strong and credible council.
Akomire, who commended the peaceful conduct of the election that produced the new executive, said he had earlier expressed concerns about the process but was satisfied with the outcome.
He described the successful election as a positive signal for the future of IPAC in Edo State and expressed confidence that the new leadership would take the council to greater heights.
