From Okwe Obi, Abuja

The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC), has sued for peace and orderliness in the November 11 governorship elections in Bayelsa, Kogi and Imo States.

IPAC specifically cautioned political parties and their candidates to against vote buying and thuggery, stressing that they should recommit themselves to the principles of democracy, fairness, and transparency.

Its National Chairman Yusuf Yabaji Sani, at a press briefing yesterday in Abuja, said the Council had deployed members to sensitise voters in the aforementioned states.

He said: “It is in pursuit of the objectives of voter education that IPAC officials are in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States, where elections will take place simultaneously on Saturday, November 11, 2023.

“IPAC is calling on Nigerians, especially citizens in the three states to come out en-mass to exercise their rights to vote.

“The Voter sensitization and education program is a joint responsibility between political parties and the Independent Electoral Commission to ensure that citizens are mobilized, well informed, on their obligations in the electoral process.

“This ritual no doubt, is one of ways to engender transparency and citizens’ participation and engagement in the electoral process.

“In recent times, the erosion of trust in the democratic process in Nigeria has resulted in increasing political apathy thereby weakening the very foundation of democracy.

“Insecurity, whether stemming from insurgency, banditry, or other forms of violence, creates an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty which does not only jeopardize the safety of citizens, but also undermines their confidence in the ability of the government to provide security and maintain law and order.

“The outcomes of elections play a crucial role in shaping public perception. When citizens perceive electoral processes as flawed or manipulated, it erodes their trust in the democratic system.

“Fair and credible elections are essential for fostering a sense of legitimacy and trust in the government.

“In the light of the above IPAC is introducing an innovative intervention through Election Results Management System ERMS which has recently brought to the attention of INEC Chairman, all 19 National Chairmen, as well as all the Governorship Candidates in Bayelsa, Imo & Kogi States.”

He added: “Thuggery, vote buying, and rigging are detrimental to the democratic process and can erode the trust that citizens have in their elected representatives.

“By resisting these negative influences, citizens can contribute to the creation of a fair and transparent electoral environment.

“Choosing leaders based on merit, vision, and their potential impact on the community is vital.

“Citizens should prioritize candidates who genuinely represent their interests and are committed to the welfare and development of their respective States.

“By doing so, they can ensure that their votes lead to the election of leaders, who will work towards the betterment of their lives and communities.

“Citizens should be proactive in shaping the future of the nation. Grassroots involvement is fundamental to the success of any democracy.

“By disregarding the negative tactics of political actors and focusing on making informed choices, citizens can contribute to the establishment of a robust and accountable democratic system in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi by their conduct in the forth-coming election.”