A meeting of National Chairmen of political parties in Nigeria under
the platform Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) held in Abuja on
Friday.
Over 70 party leaders who met at the INEC Electoral Institute
threatened to boycott the 2019 election if President Muhammadu Buhari
failed to sign the Electoral Act into law.
Imo Ugochinyere, IPAC National Publicity Secretary, in a statement
noted that IPAC reviewed issues concerning the 2019 general elections as
well as the IPAC leadership.
The gathering resolved that: “In view of the fact that Nigerians want
free, fair and credible elections in 2019 which the new Electoral Bill
before the President Buhari promises, we as major stakeholders in the
electoral process call on President to sign the Bill into law.
“Should he refuse, then we will NOT be part of the electoral process in 2019 that doesn’t promise credibility and fairness.
“The delay/refusal to sign the bill will throw the country into the
worst bloody electoral conquest and put INEC in a tight situation that
will make free and credible election impossible in 2019.”
However, IPAC appreciated the efforts of the INEC Chairman towards
having a credible poll and resolved to work closely with Yakubu
Mahmood-led INEC towards ensuring free and fair polls in 2019.
IPAC also expressed concerns over the tensed political atmosphere in
the country and the issues concerning how to secure Police neutrality
come 2019 and resolved to seek audience with the IG of Police.
The statement added: “A vote of confidence was passed on the Chairman of IPAC, Peter Ameh and the executive.
“A total of 7 Committees were set up including ADR, Strategy, women,
youth & people with disabilities, Government liaison, media
including Appointment of Director General, Operation chief and Chief of
Staff.”