Title: The crisis within the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC): When the question of the extension of mandate divides
Introduction :
The Nigerian political scene is currently shaken by an internal crisis within the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), the umbrella body bringing together all the country’s political parties. The controversy revolves around the accusation of attempted mandate extension by the national leaders of IPAC. The matter caused a logjam at a recent meeting, highlighting tensions within the organization. In this article, we will review the facts, the different points of view and the implications of this crisis on the Nigerian political landscape.
The accusations of extension of mandate:
According to IPAC National Secretary, Malam Yusuf Dantalle, the general assembly meeting ended prematurely due to the alleged attempt by the President, Engr. Sani Yabagi, to extend the mandate of the current leaders. Dantalle claims that their mandate expires at midnight on the day of the meeting and that Yabagi was trying to extend their mandate illegitimately. He emphasizes the need to hold elections to choose new leaders in accordance with the organization’s rules.
Yabagi’s point of view:
In response to these accusations, Sani Yabagi denies any attempt to extend his mandate. He claims that during the general assembly meeting, a resolution was passed to allow the existing officers to remain in office until December 18. This extension was intended to allow IPAC to finalize preparations for the centenary celebration of political parties scheduled for December 13. Yabagi also announces that an electoral committee has been formed to organize elections on December 18.
The current impasse:
The conflicting views have thrown IPAC into a situation of uncertainty. As allegations of term extension persist, the council remains stuck, anxiously awaiting elections scheduled for December 18. This internal crisis highlights tensions and divisions within IPAC, calling into question its ability to play its role as a coordinating and representative body for Nigerian political parties.
Conclusion :
The crisis within IPAC highlights the challenges facing the Nigerian political scene. As the issue of term extension divides the organization’s leaders, the credibility and effectiveness of IPAC are at stake. It is crucial that this crisis is resolved transparently and in accordance with the rules of the organization. IPAC must regain its legitimacy and capacity to represent and coordinate the country’s political parties in order to contribute constructively to Nigeria’s democratic process.
Note: The information presented is based on sources available at the time of writing this article. Further developments may change the context and outcomes of this crisis.