The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Cross River State has urged political parties across Nigeria to adopt transparent practices and maintain peaceful conduct ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying this is essential for consolidating the country’s democratic gains.
IPAC said the state’s “relative peace and political stability” was a result of the peaceful coexistence of political parties, stressing that the strength of democracy lies in fairness and mutual respect among political actors.
The position was made by the state chairman of IPAC, Engr. Effiom Edet Okon, in a statement issued following a stakeholders’ meeting held in Calabar to mark the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The statement, jointly signed by Okon and the Publicity Secretary, James Otudor, said the focus of political stakeholders must now shift toward strengthening institutions in order to build public trust ahead of the next electoral cycle.
“The focus must shift to strengthening institutions to build public trust as the next electoral cycle approaches,” the council stated.
It added that democracy must be anchored on fairness, openness and equal political opportunity for all citizens, regardless of party affiliation.
“The emphasis is on a balanced political space guided by fairness, openness, and equal political opportunity for all,” IPAC said.
The Council further called for what it described as a “balanced political space” built on mutual understanding, institutional neutrality and adherence to democratic principles.
It also advocated political collaboration guided by shared vision and voluntary consensus, as well as a cautious and law-abiding approach to emerging political activities to prevent unnecessary tensions.
IPAC stressed that sustained focus on delivering tangible benefits to citizens remains the strongest foundation for political goodwill and democratic stability.
According to the council, regular engagement among political actors, effective conflict resolution mechanisms, and support for youth, women and emerging leaders are essential to sustaining transparency and inclusiveness in governance.
It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, stability and democratic consolidation across political parties in the state and the country at large.
“As we celebrate Democracy Day, we reaffirm our collective responsibility to build a system that works for all, fairly, transparently, and sustainably. Happy Democracy Day,” the statement concluded.
