The recent bombing of the Action Peoples Party (APP) secretariat in Rivers State has been denounced by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC).
In a statement signed by Mrs. Chinyere Kalu, the National Publicity Secretary of IPAC, the Council urged President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action against the perpetrators and ensure they face justice.
Describing the attack that took place in the early hours of Monday as a heinous act, IPAC stated that it had instilled fear among peaceful residents and threatened the fragile political stability of the nation.
As the apex body representing all political parties in Nigeria, IPAC expressed deep concern over the growing trend of political violence and terrorism.
IPAC emphasized the need for swift and resolute action by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the menace that poses a significant threat to democratic values and national security.
The Council underscored that the bombing of the APP Secretariat was a direct assault on democracy, the rule of law, and the societal framework.
IPAC highlighted the grave implications of political extremism and terrorism on the country’s longstanding democracy and called for a united stance against individuals who seek to undermine the nation.
The Council suggested that the bombing could be linked to political figures vying for complete dominance in the state and being averse to dissenting opinions and robust opposition.
Emphasizing that democracy should flourish without coercion, IPAC cautioned against viewing politics as a zero-sum game.
IPAC stressed the danger of terrorism being exploited by criminal elements to further their agendas, urging President Tinubu to instruct security agencies to:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the bombing
- Identify and prosecute the perpetrators
- Implement preventive measures to thwart future attacks
In addition, the Council called on all political parties, stakeholders, and Nigerians to condemn such violent acts, advocate for peace, unity, and democratic principles, and support the government’s campaign against political extremism and terrorism.