The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) held its 1st Roundtable Series today. The event was attended by all Chairpersons of political parties and focused on the theme: “The Role of The Judiciary in Nigeria’s Democratic Sustainability.”

The Keynote Speaker, Mr. Jibrin Samuel Okutepa, SAN, raised concerns about the controversies surrounding the 2023 general elections. He highlighted the roles of INEC, Political Parties, and the Judiciary in his address, stating “Democracy in Nigeria is defined as the government of the selected by the selected and for the selected.”

Mr. Okutepa also expressed concerns about the independence of the Judiciary, suggesting that its officials being appointed by the executives might jeopardize its independence. He emphasized the significant role the Judiciary plays in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy as it is perceived as the last hope of the common man.

The event took place at Ladi Kwali Hall, Sheraton Hotel, Abuja, on August 8, 2024, with opening remarks by the National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, Alh. Yusuf M. Dantalle. The discussion panel included Dr. Sam Amadi, Senator Shehu Sani, Ene Obi, Dr. Ijeoma Nwafor, Alh. Falalu Bello, Dr. Illyasu B. Gashinbaki, and F.R.A Onoja.

The discussants shared their perspectives on the role of the Judiciary in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy. Following this, party Chairmen, such as Senator Abdullahi Ganduje of the APC, Dr. Ajuji Ahmed of the NNPP, and others, were given the opportunity to express their views on the theme.

The event’s moderator, Dr. Amaechi Anaekwe, informed the participants and guests of upcoming events and Dr. Chris Oga Kalu, IPAC’s Technical Consultant, formally presented the upcoming events. Dr. Chris used the opportunity to invite actors to an audition for IPAC’s documentary movie titled “Unbroken: Two and a Half Decades,” taking place on August 9, 2024, at Merit House, Maitama.

A summary of the event was presented by Adaora Onyechere of AIT. The summary highlighted major issues facing the Judiciary as the last hope of the common man and offered 21 recommendations.