The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has elected a new executive committee in Anambra State following a closely contested internal election observed by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Eminent Uzochukwu of the Allied Peoples Movement was elected chairman with nine votes, narrowly defeating his closest rival, Chijioke Okeke of the All Progressives Congress, who polled eight votes.
Other executive positions were also filled during the election, which brought together representatives of registered political parties in the state.
In his acceptance speech, Uzochukwu described the outcome as a victory for democratic principles rather than individual ambition.
“Nobody has lost; nobody has won. What has won is democracy and IPAC,” he said, pledging to foster unity and prevent factionalism within the council.
He said peaceful collaboration among political parties was essential for credible elections and political stability, adding that he would initiate consultations to strengthen cooperation among member parties.
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Addressing journalists after the election, Uzochukwu, called for closer engagement between IPAC and the Anambra State government led by Governor Charles Soludo, arguing that the council’s advisory role could support governance and development.
“The government has not fully leveraged IPAC’s presence,” he said, while acknowledging the governor’s performance.
Uzochukwu warned against concentrating decision-making in a single office, advocating a more inclusive governance model that incorporates diverse political perspectives.
He said such an approach would strengthen democratic culture and support sustainable development in the state.
The outgoing chairman, Uche Ugwuoji, who led the council for five years, urged members to remain united despite political differences.
“We may quarrel during elections, but we unite after,” he said, while thanking members, INEC observers and the electoral committee for their support.
IPAC, which serves as an umbrella body for political parties in Nigeria, plays a coordinating role in promoting dialogue and electoral cooperation ahead of polls in Africa’s most populous nation.