By Onwa Ekor
Ahead 2027 general elections, the Inter- Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Cross River, has projected 2.5 million votes, a development that would position the state as one of the strongest voting states in the country.
The state chairman of IPAC in Cross River, Engr. Effiom Okon, made the projection when he led members of his team on a press briefing at the Ernest Etim Bassey NUJ Press Centre in Calabar.
According to him, the target became necessary as every permanent voter’s card remains a weapon against political apathy, every registered voter a defender of democracy and each vote having the power to shape the destiny of the state.
“As the registration exercise enters its final days, IPAC urges every eligible citizen to act now, do not wait until it is too late.
“Register today, mobilise others tomorrow, vote in 2027,” Okon advised, adding that, “history will remember those who participated, not those who watched from the sidelines.”
The IPAC Chairman noted that a higher voter population means a stronger democratic mandate, greater political relevance, increased national recognition and a louder voice for Cross River in determining the future of Nigeria.
Okon further enjoined eligible citizens yet to register to do so immediately, even as he charged parents, religious and traditional leaders to mobilise their wards, congregations and communities.
He commended the governor, Prince Bassey Otu, for his unwavering commitment to democratic governance and inclusive leadership, admitting that, Otu also created an environment where political parties contribute meaningfully to governance while maintaining their individual identities and ideologies.
“The governor’s support to IPAC through the provision of an operational vehicle, a befitting and well furnished secretariat and his consistent open door policy towards all political parties represented in the Council, has significantly enhanced our capacity to discharge our constitutional responsibilities,” Okon added.
He also lauded the Independent National Electoral Commission ( INEC) and all officials working tirelessly to ensure the success of the Continuous Voters Registration (CVR), pointing out that, their dedication will help build a stronger electoral system as well as a more inclusive democracy.
