APC not responsible for leadership crises in opposition parties -IPAC

From Romanus Ugwu, Abuja

Deputy National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Zainab Abubakar Ibrahim, has absolved the All Progressives Congress (APC) of any complicity in the crises rocking almost all the opposition parties in the country.

Zainab, the APC Deputy National Women Leader, who emerged deputy chairperson of IPAC last week, told newsmen at the APC national secretariat that the Council will only work with the faction of the opposition party recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

While responding to how she intends to lead the Council as representative of the ruling party accused of fueling the crises rocking almost all the opposition parties, she said: “I don’t think APC is responsible for the internal problems of any political parties. That is their internal affair. APC is a formidable national party with representation across all zones. That attraction is drawing people in. You cannot stop a moving train. Other parties’ challenges are their responsibility.”

On the warring factions of the parties that IPAC will recognise, she said: “Regarding factions, IPAC relates strictly with INEC. It is the names of party leaders on the INEC portal that IPAC works with. We do not concern ourselves with factional disputes.”

She spoke on her mission, stressing: “I belong to the ruling party, and that gives me an edge. IPAC will also benefit immensely from my position in the ruling party. I intend to be a pillar of stability to promote dialogue and consensus among political parties. I will also ensure the promotion of electoral integrity by championing the implementation of the Electoral Act and ensuring compliance by all parties.

“I will promote inclusivity by carrying along vulnerable groups—persons with disabilities, youths, and especially women. I will champion electoral and democratic reforms by ensuring IPAC’s recommendations are taken seriously by the ruling party, both in the legislative and executive arms of government. I will also ensure IPAC leads by example by setting standards for internal democracy, transparency and accountability.

“Furthermore, I will foster dialogue and respond to opposition concerns constructively, ensuring mutual respect rather than toxic rivalry. IPAC is not an opposition body; the ruling party is also a member. I will ensure the vision and objectives of my party are clearly understood within IPAC so stakeholders understand the government’s direction.”