The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has expressed its views on the recent victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, in the Edo State governorship election held on Saturday.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially declared Okpebholo the winner on Sunday.
In a statement released on Monday by Mrs Chinyere Kalu, the National Publicity Secretary of IPAC, the council hailed the outcome as a victory for democracy, noting that it would further strengthen Nigeria’s electoral process.
“The good people of Edo State have spoken with their votes and expressed their confidence in the APC candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo. It is a clarion call to serve,” Kalu said.
IPAC urged the Governor-elect to show magnanimity in victory by reaching out to his opponents and fostering an inclusive government that would transform Edo State and enhance the well-being of its citizens.
The council stressed that Nigerian politics has long been plagued by the “winner-takes-all” mentality, which hinders the country’s democratic and developmental progress.
“The winner-takes-all syndrome has been the bane of Nigerian politics and government. This should be jettisoned in the quest for sustainable democracy and development in the country,” IPAC stated.
The council also advised any aggrieved political parties and candidates to exercise their constitutional rights by seeking redress through appropriate legal channels, while acknowledging that the election was largely peaceful.
“As the umbrella body of all registered political parties, IPAC will continue to consolidate and deepen democracy by ensuring an environment conducive for successful elections, political stability, and the well-being of Nigerians,” the statement read.
Looking ahead, IPAC called on INEC to build on the performance demonstrated in the Edo governorship election as the electoral body prepares for the November 2024 Ondo State gubernatorial election.
“There is no substitute for credible elections. The people’s votes must count, and their mandates must be respected by all stakeholders in the political process,” the council emphasised.
In conclusion, IPAC congratulated the people of Edo State for their participation in the election and reaffirmed its commitment to advancing democracy in Nigeria.
“Once more, congratulations to the good people of Edo State. Democracy has come to stay in Nigeria. Together, we will deepen it to yield its fruits and dividends to citizens,” IPAC added.
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