The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has issued a stern warning to political operatives attempting to interfere in the upcoming Rivers State local government elections, slated for October 5.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, IPAC’s National Chairman, Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, called for a transparent and interference-free electoral process.
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Dantalle criticized the exorbitant nomination fees, which he claimed were designed to block credible candidates from participating in the elections.
He also expressed concerns over conflicting court rulings, which he said could jeopardize the integrity of the electoral process.
Highlighting the importance of elections at the local government level, Dantalle emphasized that they are fundamental to democracy because local governments are closest to the people.
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He urged Nigerians to support democracy by ensuring that the will of the electorate is respected.
IPAC called on the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the National Judicial Council to investigate judicial officers involved in issuing questionable orders that compromise the electoral process.
The council reiterated its longstanding proposal for the abolition of State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs), calling for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to oversee all local government elections for greater transparency.
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Dantalle also urged security agencies, including the Inspector-General of Police, to ensure the safety of voters and electoral officials during the polls.
He stressed that IPAC will not tolerate attempts by political actors to derail Nigeria’s democracy, urging the people of Rivers State to vote for their preferred candidates.
The council further condemned judicial interventions aimed at halting the elections, accusing desperate politicians of engaging in “forum shopping” to secure favorable rulings.
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Dantalle warned that such actions threaten the integrity of the judiciary and called on judicial authorities to restore public confidence by sanctioning errant judges.
IPAC noted that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) has assured all stakeholders that the election will be free, fair, and credible, and confirmed that political parties have complied with all the necessary procedures for participation.
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IPAC further stressed the need for all political parties and candidates to respect electoral integrity, calling for a level playing field for all participants to ensure that the will of the people is upheld in the ballot box.
