IPAC Urges Eligible C/River Residents To Register, Commends Otu’s Support for Democracy

By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Cross River State has urged all eligible residents to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Addressing journalists in Calabar, the state IPAC Chairman, Engr. Effiom Edet Okon, called on parents, youths, religious leaders, traditional rulers and political parties to mobilise eligible citizens to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

He said every eligible Cross Riverian should become an ambassador for voter registration, stressing that increased participation would strengthen the state’s democratic process.

Okon also commended Governor Bassey Otu for what he described as his commitment to inclusive governance and democratic engagement with all legally registered political parties in the state.

According to him, the governor’s support to IPAC, including the provision of an operational vehicle, a furnished secretariat and regular engagement with political parties, has enhanced the council’s capacity to carry out its responsibilities.

He said the council believes democracy thrives through dialogue, inclusion and cooperation, adding that the administration has created an atmosphere where political parties can contribute meaningfully to governance while retaining their distinct identities.

The IPAC chairman reaffirmed the council’s commitment to working with the state government to promote democratic ideals, strengthen institutions, encourage citizen participation and sustain peace and political stability in Cross River.

He also reiterated IPAC’s resolve to promote peaceful politics, issue-based campaigns, political tolerance, voter education and credible elections across the state.

The council further applauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the conduct of the ongoing CVR exercise and urged eligible citizens yet to register not to delay.

“As the registration exercise enters its final days, every eligible citizen should act now, register and encourage others to do the same. Every vote counts and will help shape the future of Cross River State,” Okon said. He added that the council hopes to see a significant increase in voter registration ahead of the 2027 polls.