The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Cross River State branch, has called on political candidates contesting in the upcoming November 2nd local government council and councillorship elections to prioritize issue-based campaigns, condemning any form of calumny or slander.
Addressing the media in Calabar, IPAC Chairman, Engr. Edet Effiom, emphasized that electioneering activities should be focused on substantive issues affecting the electorate, rather than engaging in defamatory practices. He reiterated that peace is indispensable for progress, and any disruption could hamper the state’s developmental trajectory.
“I urge the leadership of political parties within the state to refrain from actions that could incite political unrest,” Effiom stated. “Let us ensure a peaceful atmosphere as we approach the local government elections scheduled for November 2, 2024.”
He further commended the candidates vying for chairmanship and councillorship positions for their enthusiasm, while advising them to carry out their campaigns in a manner that upholds the state’s peace and tranquility. “It is only in a peaceful environment that development can be attracted,” he remarked.
Engr. Effiom also addressed the importance of orderly conduct, urging all candidates to avoid a confrontational stance. “I implore everyone involved in this contest to conduct themselves with decorum. No society or business thrives amidst anarchy,” he said. “Elections should not be viewed as a do-or-die affair, but rather as a democratic process for selecting leaders. It is simply a contest where one either emerges victorious or concedes defeat.”
Expressing goodwill towards those whose candidacies have been confirmed by the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC), Effiom lauded their success. He encouraged all candidates to engage the electorate through campaigns focused solely on issues, noting, “I commend all the successful candidates whose names were recently published by CROSIEC. Let us ensure our engagements with voters across wards and local government areas remain constructive and issue-driven.”
The advisory council further issued a statement, signed by Engr. Effiom, encouraging all political parties to establish their respective campaign councils across local government areas to streamline campaign activities and foster effective coordination.
IPAC commended CROSIEC for overcoming challenges in ensuring the upcoming elections are free, fair, and credible. Effiom also praised the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for maintaining a stance of non-interference, thus enabling the electoral body to function independently. “We appreciate the Governor’s restraint and his commitment to allowing the state electoral umpire to organize the forthcoming council polls without undue influence,” Effiom emphasized.
In closing, he acknowledged the significant involvement of women in the electoral process, expressing solidarity and support. “We are particularly encouraged by the number of women participating in this electoral process. Women are, indeed, the bedrock of our society, and we stand in solidarity with them as they step forward to serve,” he added.
