Osun Election: IPAC Warns Against Use of State Machinery for Manipulation

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has issued a stern warning to political parties and government institutions, urging them not to manipulate the upcoming Osun State governorship election using state resources. IPAC insists that the election's outcome must reflect the genuine choice of Osun voters, free from intimidation, manipulation, or the misuse of public institutions against opponents. "Government institutions belong to the people and must remain institutions of the State, not instruments of partisan political competition," stated IPAC National Chairman, Dr. Yusuf M. Dantalle, following the council's General Assembly review of the political climate ahead of the August 15 poll. He called for a free, fair, transparent, credible, and peaceful election, emphasizing that political engagement should be based on persuasion and tolerance, not confrontation or threats. IPAC also condemned electoral violence, thuggery, intimidation, and vote-buying, imploring candidates to distance themselves from violent groups and compete on their ideas and vision. The council stressed the sanctity of every Nigerian's vote, warning against any form of coercion or inducement. Furthermore, IPAC charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain professionalism and impartiality, ensuring timely material delivery, proper official training, transparent voting, and accurate results collation. Security agencies were also urged to protect all participants and election materials without discrimination, and not to suppress legitimate political activities. Finally, IPAC appealed to Osun voters to remain peaceful, safeguard their Permanent Voter's Cards, and resist any attempts to incite political violence. The council underscored that the election's integrity hinges on every stage of the process, from campaigns to dispute resolution, ultimately asserting that "The ballot belongs to the people. The electoral process belongs to the people. And the outcome must reflect the will of the people."

“

Government institutions belong to the people and must remain institutions of the State, not instruments of partisan political competition.