IPAC Adopts Constitution, Pledges to Strengthen Democracy, Inclusive Representation

Dike Onwuamaeze

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) whose membership encompasses all registered political parties in Nigeria, has adopted the draft constitution that would be referred to as “The Constitution of IPAC.”

A communique that was signed by the National Chairman of IPAC, Mr. Yusuf M. Dantalle and National Secretary of IPAC, Mr. Maxwell Mgbudem, said that the constitution is designed to as well as strengthen internal governance mechanisms within IPAC, deepen democracy in Nigeria and strengthen gender and social inclusion in politics.

The constitution, according to them, would also promote transparency and accountability as well as internal party democracy.

The communique was issued after IPAC’s technical session to review and adopt a new and inclusive constitution, which was held from 17th to 19th December, 2024 at Bon Hotel Ikeja Residence, Lagos State and hosted with support from the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), and funding from Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The session brought together representatives from the 19 political parties and was observed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The IPAC declared its resolve “to prioritise its role in promoting credible elections and democratic governance by supporting electoral reforms that enhance free, fair, transparent, and inclusive elections, upholding the rule of law and adherence to constitutional provisions by political parties.”

It also declared that it would play a role in addressing issues such as voter apathy, electoral violence, and vote-buying through advocacy and civic engagement initiatives.

In addition, IPAC also introduced alternative dispute resolution in the constitution to mediate conflicts among member political parties, ensuring peaceful resolutions and fostering unity within the council.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with INEC and other stakeholders to promote electoral integrity, including compliance with the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and electoral laws.

The council said that “IPAC recognises the gender gap in political representation and commits to supporting the passage into law of the Special Seat Reservation for Women in the National and State Houses of Assembly Bill currently before the National Assembly” and pledged “to work together, fostering dialogue among political parties, CSOs, and stakeholders to achieve inclusive democracy.”