IPAC Unveils Blueprint for Political Party Funding and Electoral Reform in Nigeria
The Inter-Party Advisory Council of Nigeria (IPAC) recently took a significant step towards reshaping the political environment by introducing a comprehensive action plan. This strategy aims to address the ambitions and objectives of political parties within the nation. Unveiled in Abuja with the backing of the Westminister Foundation for Democracy (WFD) under the Nigeria Open Political Party (NOPP) project, the plan outlines measures including the pursuit of public funding for political entities.
Serving as the collective voice for all registered political parties in Nigeria, IPAC has positioned itself at the forefront of constitutional reform efforts. Among the council’s priorities is the re-establishment of state funding for political parties, a move anticipated to emerge from the ongoing amendments to the 1999 Constitution. “The conclusion of the 10th National Assembly’s constitutional reform committee’s work will bring discussions on affirmative action, the implementation of the Justice Muhammed Uwais electoral reform committee report from 2008, and the reintroduction of public funding for registered political parties,” IPAC stated.
The recommendations of the Uwais Committee, led by Justice Muhammadu Uwais and initiated under Umar Yar’Adua’s presidency, have yet to be fully adopted. These suggestions included transferring the power of appointing the INEC board to the National Judicial Council (NJC) and setting time limits for election petitions, alongside establishing a commission for electoral offences.
Yusuf Dantalle, the Chairman of IPAC, believes this action plan will significantly influence the democratic landscape, especially during a period where citizens grapple with economic, security, and governance challenges. He asserts that the strategy will fast-track the political development of Nigeria, highlighting the council’s leadership role in shaping elected officials across the country.
Amidst discussions on political progress, former Senate President and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Pius Anyim, addressed the urgent need for political parties to combat the dominance of wealthy influencers and other systemic issues plaguing party dynamics. His call to action emphasised the necessity for IPAC’s new leadership to embark on reformative measures aimed at deepening democracy.
Adding to the discourse, Adebowale Olorunmola, the Country Director of WFD, remarked on the critical role political parties play in curtailing the influence of ‘money politicians’. He assured that WFD’s continued support would be pivotal in implementing IPAC’s ambitious plan, underscoring the collective effort required to foster a healthier political ecosystem in Nigeria.
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