The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Ondo State chapter, has acknowledged the Social Democratic Party (SDP) as one of the fastest-rising opposition forces in the state’s political landscape.
Leaders of IPAC made this known during a courtesy visit to the SDP secretariat in Akure, where they commended the party’s increasing relevance and steady growth across the 18 local government areas of Ondo State.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of IPAC in Ondo, Hon. Olaoluwa Adesanya, said the SDP has demonstrated resilience and is gradually carving out a stronger presence in the state’s political space.
He stressed that IPAC remains committed to promoting responsible and constructive opposition, which goes beyond mere criticism of government policies.
“Opposition must be issue-based, objective, and guided by the collective interest of the people, not political sentiments. Our role is to engage government constructively, offer credible alternatives, and make policy suggestions that can strengthen democracy and improve governance,” Adesanya stated.
The IPAC Chairman added that responsible opposition is crucial for democratic growth, as it ensures accountability, keeps government on its toes, and amplifies the voice of the people in decision-making processes.
Commending the SDP’s leadership under its chairman, Barrister Gbenga Akinbuli, Adesanya described the party’s transformation as a positive force that reflects the deepening of democratic governance in the state.
Also speaking, the IPAC Secretary, Comrade Alex Adeniyi, lauded Akinbuli’s recognition within the council as “timely and well-deserved,” noting that his inclusive leadership has fostered consensus among political actors in the state.
In his response, Akinbuli expressed appreciation to IPAC for the solidarity visit, pledging that the SDP would remain committed to supporting IPAC’s programmes while collaborating with other political parties to promote unity and good governance.
“This recognition is a call to do more. Our focus remains on building a viable alternative and ensuring that democracy delivers real benefits to the people of Ondo State,” Akinbuli said.
The visit was attended by leaders of various political parties, including Hon. Jenyo Ataunoko, Chairman of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), and Elder Funso Felix Owaro, IPAC Treasurer and Chairman of the Action Revival Movement (ARM). Both commended Akinbuli’s leadership style and urged opposition parties to continue working together to entrench democratic values across Ondo State.
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