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The Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, has urged Nigerians to replace pessimism with optimism and face the future with renewed confidence and faith.
The council called on politicians to embrace issue-based politics and shun violence, bitterness and electoral malpractices.
IPAC also charged the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to adequately prepare for upcoming elections and guarantee a level playing field for all political parties.
“As we reflect on the outgoing year, it is imperative that Nigerians recommit themselves to strengthening our democracy and improving the quality of our national life,” Dr. Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, National Chairman of IPAC, said.
“Nation-building is a collective responsibility. Every citizen has a role to play in fostering a peaceful, just and prosperous society. IPAC therefore calls on Nigerians to be proactive and engaged in issues that affect their lives, noting that the price of freedom, good governance and prosperity is eternal vigilance.
“The New Year presents both a challenge and an opportunity to consolidate our democracy, promote national unity, safeguard security and stimulate wealth creation. It marks a new dawn and a renewed call to duty in the task of nation-building.
“Despite the nation’s turbulent political experiences, Nigerians have consistently demonstrated resilience and determination in their resolve to build a better and greater country. This enduring spirit remains a source of hope and strength.
“The year 2026 offers another opportunity for broad citizen participation in the democratic process, including the ongoing voter registration exercise, the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections, the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections, and preparations towards the decisive 2027 general election.”
IPAC urged Nigerians to exercise their civic responsibility by voting for candidates of their choice and to resist the temptation of vote-buying, which undermines democracy and mortgages the future of the nation.
The council also called on political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns and desist from violence, bitterness and other electoral malpractices that threaten democratic consolidation.
Furthermore, IPAC urged INEC to maintain neutrality as the electoral umpire and provide a level playing field for all political parties and candidates.
“The Commission must adequately prepare for the forthcoming elections, including conducting test runs of its electoral processes and materials, to avoid avoidable glitches that could undermine public confidence. Rebuilding trust in the electoral system remains critical,” it said.
IPAC reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with INEC and other critical stakeholders to deepen and strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, promote political stability and ensure the successful conduct of elections for the overall well-being of Nigerians.
On the new tax law, IPAC reiterated its position and urged the Presidency to urgently address the observed discrepancies between the version passed by the National Assembly and the document gazetted by the Federal Government.
“Resolving this matter in the national interest is essential. What is worth doing is worth doing well, and adherence to the rule of law sworn to by all elected public office holders must be upheld,” it said.
“As we enter the New Year, IPAC calls for collective prayers for sustainable democracy, development and security. Nigerians are encouraged to replace pessimism with optimism and approach the future with renewed confidence and faith. With God on our side and responsible leadership, the dividends of democracy will be more evident in 2026.”
2026: Shun violence, bitterness, electoral malpractices – IPAC to politicians
