PRESS STATEMENT
IPAC PLATEAU STATE CALLS FOR CALM OVER LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS
The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Plateau State, has observed recent comments and public discussions surrounding the Local Government Elections earlier scheduled to hold in Plateau State.
While recognising the right of political parties and other stakeholders to express their views on matters of public interest, IPAC considers it necessary to clarify the prevailing circumstances and appeal for calm and restraint.
IPAC, alongside the media and Civil Society Organisations, was carried along in the electoral process. The necessary notice of election was issued, while the timetable and schedule of activities were subsequently reviewed in line with the relevant electoral provisions.
However, the process was brought to a halt following a judgment of the Plateau State High Court, which suspended the operation of certain provisions of the relevant Local Government and PLASIEC laws. Consequently, the earlier scheduled Local Government Elections of September 9, 2026, could not proceed.
IPAC wishes to emphasise that the prevailing legal position must be respected by all stakeholders. No institution or individual should be expected to act contrary to a subsisting order of a court of competent jurisdiction.
The Council is aware that appeals against the judgment have been filed by some political parties and relevant authorities, including the Plateau State Ministry of Justice. In view of the importance of the matter, IPAC respectfully calls on the Court of Appeal to expedite the hearing and determination of the appeals in accordance with the law.
We urge members of the public not to be misled by speculation, misinformation or politically motivated interpretations of the situation. Until the legal issues are conclusively resolved, any attempt to proceed with the elections could raise serious legal concerns and result in an unnecessary waste of public resources.
IPAC therefore calls on political party leaders, politicians, the media and all stakeholders to exercise responsibility and refrain from actions or statements capable of overheating the political atmosphere.
At this critical period of political activities across the country, the peace, stability and democratic progress of Plateau State must remain a collective responsibility.
We encourage all stakeholders to remain calm, respect the rule of law and allow the judicial process to take its lawful course.
Signed
Aminu Hadi
Secretary General
Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC)
Plateau State
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