Nwigwe Elected New IPAC Chairman In Ebonyi

Ebonyi State's political parties just handed leadership of their joint council to a woman with a clear message: no more glitches, only growth.

Mrs. Queendarlyn Nwigwe has emerged as the new IPAC Ebonyi State chairman, promising to strengthen democracy, push transparency, and keep peace among the state's political parties.

The election and inauguration took place on Monday at the INEC office in Abakaliki, drawing a crowd that included Ebonyi State Commissioner for Inter-Party Affairs Hon. Philip Okorie, IPAC Director-General and National Rescue Movement National Chairman Prince Chinedu Obi, party leaders, electoral officials, and other stakeholders.

Nwigwe, who also serves as the APC Women Leader in Ebonyi State, was already a member of the council before rising to lead it.

She now heads a new executive team that includes:

• Bishop Constant Edward, Action Peoples Party, Deputy Chairman
• Chief Peter Ozuma, Action Alliance, Secretary
• Evangelist Kate Ohakam, Allied Peoples Movement, Deputy Secretary
• Hon. Ogodo Stanley, National Rescue Movement, Organizing Secretary
• Juliet Nwinya, Zenith Labour Party, Publicity Secretary
• Mercy Nwogbala, Young Progressives Party, Treasurer
• Paschal Ani, Accord Party, Financial Secretary

Nwigwe did not pretend the process was flawless. In her acceptance speech, she admitted the election had a few early hiccups, but framed it as a good sign rather than a setback.

"It is true we started with glitches, but I know that when good things are coming, this is how it starts. God has already unveiled the glitches to me, and by His grace, everything will be well," she said.

She promised an administration built on openness and inclusion.

"IPAC is transparent. IPAC is committed to promoting democracy. I will carry my colleagues along. I will be as transparent as possible. I am not perfect, but as a politician committed to promoting democracy in Nigeria, I will do my best," she said.

Speaking to reporters shortly after her inauguration, the new IPAC Ebonyi State chairman said improving communication between political parties and keeping the political climate calm would be top of her agenda.

"We are going to enhance communication among political parties, ensure elections are conducted properly and create a peaceful environment for all political parties to thrive. Ebonyi will remain peaceful during elections, campaigns and other democratic activities," she said.

Asked whether her dual role as APC Women Leader could compromise her neutrality as IPAC chairman, Nwigwe insisted the two roles would not clash, and stressed that election outcomes should always reflect the will of voters.

"Political parties are free to present their candidates. We should all go to the polls, and whoever works hard and secures the mandate of the people should emerge victorious," she said.

Prince Chinedu Obi used the occasion to praise the Ebonyi State Government for setting up a full Ministry of Inter-Party Affairs, calling it a standout example of commitment to inclusive democracy.

"I now see the need for the Inter-Party Advisory Council to be recognised to the extent that Ebonyi State has established a full-fledged ministry to handle inter-party affairs. I believe it is the only state with such a ministry, and we sincerely commend the government for this laudable initiative," Obi said.

He urged the incoming leadership to govern inclusively and protect the peaceful political atmosphere the state currently enjoys.

Hon. Philip Okorie welcomed the new executives on behalf of the state government and pledged continued support, while Dr. Jennifer Adibe-Nwafor, immediate past IPAC chairman in Ebonyi and ADC state chairman, congratulated Nwigwe and urged her to lead with fairness and impartiality.