By Jubril Bada

The national chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Mr. Yusuf Dantalle, has charged all stakeholders in Saturday’s governorship election in Ondo State to play the game according to the rules, ensuring a free, fair, and credible election.

Emphasising the significance of conducting a free, fair, and peaceful election, the chairman stated that stakeholders must adhere to the rules, including the electoral guidelines, the constitution, and the electoral act.

Dantalle gave this charge yesterday in Akure, the state capital, during a workshop titled “Stakeholders’ Engagement Towards a Peaceful, Transparent, and Inclusive Election in Ondo State.”

He urged all stakeholders to adhere to the principles of democracy, respect the rights of others, and prioritise the interests of the people in the state and Nigeria as a whole.

The chairman emphasised the role of political parties in consolidating and deepening democracy, as well as ensuring a conducive environment for successful elections, political stability, enduring democracy, good governance, and the well-being of Nigerians.

He called on political parties and candidates in the forthcoming election to respect the peace accord and play by the rules of the game.

The IPAC chairman, who enjoined voters in the state to exercise their civic duty without hindrance and vote for the candidates of their choice based on their manifestos, track records, and leadership qualities, urged them to reject any form of vote-buying, as it undermines the integrity of the country’s democracy.

He urged the contestants to recognise that the will of the electorate is sacrosanct and should be respected, noting that the decision to choose leaders rests squarely on the shoulders of the people, which makes democracy unique.

He further stated that contestants must resist the temptation to manipulate the process or attempt to force themselves on the people.

“Leadership should be selfless service to the people, and if that is the case, no responsible leader would want to force themselves on the people,” he noted.

The IPAC boss appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to remain neutral and impartial, ensuring a level playing field for all political parties and candidates.

“To all stakeholders, let us remember that an election is not a war; it is simply an exercise in democracy, where we choose leaders who will promote good governance, accountability, and development.

“As stakeholders, we must prioritise peace, equity, and justice. Let us work together to create an environment conducive to credible elections,” he stated.

According to him, the council, as the umbrella body of political parties, brought stakeholders together to emphasise the need to ensure that the election is conducted in line with the law, openly, and in accordance with extant laws.

Commenting, the State Chairman of IPAC, Mr. Olaoluwa Adesanya, expressed his pleasure over the council’s position in sensitising its members about the need to deepen democracy and promote peaceful coexistence in the state towards the election.

The governorship candidates, state chairmen, and representatives of political parties were present at the event.