The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Ogun State, Comrade Abayomi Sanyaolu, has made a firm commitment to ensure that the 2027 general elections in the state are conducted without violence. Speaking in Abeokuta, Sanyaolu emphasized that the council is fully prepared to resist any attempts to incite violence across all 236 wards in Ogun State.
Collaboration with Security Agencies
Sanyaolu revealed that IPAC is already collaborating closely with security agencies, particularly the police, to guarantee that perpetrators of electoral violence are arrested and prosecuted promptly. He stressed that there will be no interference from influential individuals in these legal processes, ensuring justice is served impartially.
Addressing Past Incidents
This proactive stance follows incidents of violence recorded during last year's bye-election, which included disruptions of campaigns, ballot box snatching, and sporadic shootings. Sanyaolu asserted that such events must not be repeated in the 2027 elections, highlighting the council's determination to learn from past mistakes and implement stricter measures.
Dismissal of Bias Claims
In response to rumors, Sanyaolu firmly dismissed claims that IPAC is working for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He insisted that the council remains an independent body dedicated to protecting the interests of all political parties in Ogun State. He added that no political party will be excluded from participating in the elections, with IPAC working alongside the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field for all contestants.
Warning Against Vote Buying
Sanyaolu, who also serves as Chairman of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in the state, issued a strong warning against vote buying. He urged voters to resist financial inducements and exercise their franchise freely, cautioning that anyone involved in electoral malpractice will face severe legal consequences.
Plans for Peaceful Elections
"We have a lot of plans to resist violence in the 2027 elections. If violence comes, it will be easy for us to tackle it. Just because you are in a different party does not mean you must fight or kill anyone. If I am in APM and you are in APC, let us campaign peacefully and allow people to vote," Sanyaolu stated.
He further explained that if results are manipulated, IPAC will challenge them in court to ensure nullification. The goal is for Ogun State to be recorded as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria during the elections.
Public Awareness Campaigns
Sanyaolu noted that the problem of electoral violence often stems from the masses, particularly voters. To address this, IPAC is intensifying public awareness campaigns across all 236 wards, educating residents on the importance of violence-free elections and the legal ramifications of misconduct.
"If there are defaulters, we will take them to court. They will not escape justice and may be jailed, because the Electoral Act speaks clearly on such offences. We will not accept interventions from influential individuals because of the damage caused," he concluded, reinforcing the council's commitment to upholding electoral laws without compromise.
