BusinessDay reported Nov. 10 that Cross River State’s Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) is planning a review of public projects across 18 local government areas and a cross-party walk to encourage peaceful campaigning before Nigeria’s 2027 elections.
The report said IPAC State Chairman Engr. Effiom Edet Okon outlined the planned activities in a press statement. The council wants to gauge the progress of government projects and whether residents have benefited. Its teams are expected to identify development needs left unattended or neglected and send recommendations to the state government. IPAC framed the review as an accountability exercise, saying it was not meant to undermine the state administration or individual officeholders.
The itinerary lists visits for Nov. 10 in Bekwarra, Obudu and Obanliku. Further stops are scheduled across the state, ending Nov. 21 in Calabar South and Calabar Municipal.
IPAC has also scheduled a Political Parties and Stakeholders’ Conference for Nov. 30 at Metropolitan Hotel in Calabar. The program includes a Citizens and Stakeholders Election and Security Dialogue. Topics include safety around elections, confidence in voting, political inclusion and national stability. BusinessDay reported that the governor, government officials, lawmakers, party leaders, candidates, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, community and religious leaders, civil society groups and media were expected to attend.
The report said IPAC described its programs as efforts to advance political tolerance, peaceful coexistence and accountability. It also said the council welcomed Gov. Bassey Otu’s assurance of an open political environment after seeking a level playing field for parties, and commended his directive to arrest those responsible for attacks on political actors.
The peace walk is scheduled for Dec. 5 at 11/11 Roundabout in Calabar. IPAC has urged candidates for governor and legislative seats from recognized parties to take part with supporters. The council presented the event as a public demonstration of unity across party lines, rather than an endorsement of a candidate or party.
