Director-General of the institute, Prof Ayo Omotayo, made this known during a two-day retreat on ‘Strategic Leadership For Effective Inter-party Engagement’ held in Lagos.
The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies has advised political parties to imbibe sportsmaship in their quest to win political power, saying this would help to strengthen democracy and the political system.
Director-General of the institute, Prof Ayo Omotayo, made this known during a two-day retreat on ‘Strategic Leadership For Effective Inter-party Engagement’ held in Lagos.
He said it was the prerogative of all registered political parties irrespective of status, whether as the ruling party or in opposition, to be part of IPAC, which serves as unifier.
Yusuf M. Dantalle, National Secretary of Inter-Party Advisory Council, and Chairman of retreat communique drafting committee said, “The development of an implementable strategic plan for IPAC within the remaining life-span of the current leadership built around a clear-cut vision, mission and objective. A highly interactive website and social media handles should be designed and promoted under a dedicated IT administrator.
“Engage the services of consultants to develop and implement a professional proposal for effective fundraising. Improve levels of engagements among political parties and other relevant stakeholders.
“Strengthen IPAC structures at the subnational level and also ensure strategic leaders are sustained at the same level. Application of strong sanctions on erring IPAC leadership at the subnational level mortgaging the collective interest of political parties for pecuniary gains.
“Develop a leadership development programme that will help to enhance the leadership recruitment processes of political parties. Ensure inclusivity through a deliberate action plan aimed at persuading political parties lagging to amend their respective constitutions to better accommodate PWDs, women and youths.
“To simultaneously embark on aggressive advocacy, pursue an appropriate legal framework at the National Assembly and ensure a nationwide boycott of local government elections to entrench credibility and provide a level playing field for free, fair, peaceful and transparent elections where it matters. Creation of a forum for past IPAC chairmen to serve in advisory capacity to the council.”