Abiodun Commissions New IPAC Secretariat, Harps On Political Unity, Electoral Integrity

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State on Wednesday, commissioned the new secretariat for Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Ogun State chapter with a charge to members of the parties to uphold electoral integrity and political unity.

The governor represented by the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiu Hamzat said Dapo Abiodun administration would continue to support IPAC for them to achieve their set out objectives.

The governor charged the IPAC members to champion good governance for credible elections in 2027.

“Today is a good day for us, we have gathered here to commission this edifice. This would not have been possible without the assistance of Governor Dapo Abiodun because before now, IPAC did not have any secretariat.

“The governor has asked me to tell you that he would continue to support IPAC in Ogun state to achieve the mission and objectives they have set for themselves. For instance, promoting political unity and cooperation in the state, advancing democratic governance, strengthening Electoral integrity, and championing good governance.

“I want to believe very strongly, that if IPAC could achieve these missions and objectives, 2027 will be a free and fair credible election.”

In his welcome address, the Ogun State IPAC Chairman, Comrade Abayomi Sanyaolu, said the new Secretariat is a symbol of unity that would build good governance, political engagement and democratic participation among parties.

According to Sanyaolu, the new Secretariat christened Democracy House coincided with the one year anniversary of the current IPAC executives in the state.

The IPAC chairman noted that as part of activities marking one year anniversary in office, a series of impactful events have been outlined to include symposium and panel discussion for insightful discourse on key political and governance issues, medical outreach, community outreach and project evaluation of the current administration in the state.

He noted that the listed activities reflect IPAC’s unwavering dedication to good governance, accountability, and community service.

“It is with utmost delight and profound responsibility that I stand before you all, to welcome everyone present here today, especially, the executive governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, to this milestone occasion. Also, I will like to welcome the national chairman of IPAC, Alhaji Yusuf Dantalle and his team members from Abuja, to Abeokuta. Using this opportunity to welcome everybody.

“Today’s unveiling ceremony, is not only for the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), but for all the political parties and stakeholders in Ogun State.

“The establishment of the Democracy House is a symbol of unity, a symbol of partnership, and a unifying Secretariat that will help build good governance, political engagement, and democratic participation among the parties. It is a declaration of the firm commitment of our state government, as spearheaded by the sterling example of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, to a more inclusive and progressive political environment.

“As we all know, today marks a significant milestone—the first anniversary of the current leadership of IPAC in Ogun State. It is a moment of reflection, appreciation, and commitment to the progress we have achieved together.

“To commemorate this occasion fully, and after the official commissioning of our state office, we have outlined a series of impactful events, that will be coming up in the coming days, including:

“Symposium & Panel Discussion – A platform for insightful discourse on key political and governance issues, featuring distinguished speakers and stakeholders.

“Medical Outreach – A humanitarian initiative offering free medical consultations, screenings, and medications to residents.

“On-Site Project Evaluation – A critical assessment of key infrastructure and development projects under the leadership of our Talk and Do Governor.

“Community Outreach – Visits to the Ogun State Correctional Centre and Stella Obasanjo Motherless Children’s Home to provide support and assess their needs.

“These activities as listed above, are reflecting our unwavering dedication to good governance, accountability, and community service.

“Your Excellency, it is important to mention and value your ongoing projects, support and dedication to democratic values. Ogun State has once more set the pace being the first state in Nigeria to undertake such a high-level Secretariat for IPAC. This landmark move proved the fact that with your leadership, Ogun State continues to be at the forefront of pioneering initiatives that guarantee democracy, unity, and sustainable growth. And yes, you are a classic Arole Awolowo, and your accomplishments speak well everywhere in the state.

“As an umbrella organization of all the registered political parties in Ogun State, we are committed to your government in the provision of effective and people-friendly governance. We recognise the giant strides recorded in your administration, and we pledge to provide maximum cooperation in the realisation of your dream for the state in the interest of all.

“On this issue, Your Excellency, I appear with a modest plea on behalf of IPAC Ogun State. We are aware that the government of Ogun State has plans to or has made plans to recruit personnel into the new international airport. In the name of fairness and inclusion, we make a modest appeal that some positions be set aside for political party members under IPAC, in order to make the all-inclusive administration which you have ever been advocating for.”