A public affairs analyst, Oluwatosin Babatunde, has called on the stakeholders in Osun State not to sacrifice the neutrality of Intra Party Advisory Council (IPAC) on the altar of politics.
In a statement made available to journalists in Osogbo on Saturday, Oluwatosin Babatunde, journalist and public affairs analyst, he raised concerns over the independence of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Osun State, warning that the council’s credibility could be at risk amid shifting political dynamics.
According to him, “IPAC has always been the conscience of political parties in Osun State. Its authority comes from trust across the political spectrum, not from the prominence of any single party. Preserving its independence is absolutely critical,” Babatunde said.
“IPAC plays a pivotal role in mediating disputes, advising the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections. Pastor Victor Akande, who has been IPAC chairman, is credited with fostering dialogue, coordination, and dispute resolution in the state.
“However, with Governor Ademola Adeleke now a member of the Accord Party and seeking a second term under its banner, Pastor Akande’s position has become untenable.
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“IPAC’s strength lies in its independence. The council must be able to commend the government when it acts rightly and criticize it when necessary. A chairman closely identified with the ruling party cannot credibly perform both functions,” Babatunde added.
Babatunde stressed that stepping aside under such circumstances is not a concession but an act of statesmanship. It would safeguard IPAC’s impartiality, preserve its credibility, and signal that the institution is more important than personal or party interest.
“IPAC must remain a platform free from partisanship, able to act independently of the ruling party’s fortunes. For Osun State’s democracy to thrive, the council’s neutrality cannot be compromised. Credibility must always come before tenure.” Babatunde concluded.
