The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has called on governments at all levels to prioritise the welfare and security of Nigerians, saying true independence must extend beyond political freedom to improved living conditions.

IPAC made the call in its Independence Day message as Nigeria marks 66 years of independence.

The council’s National Chairman, Dr Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, said Nigeria had survived political upheavals, military interventions, civil war, economic recessions and socio-religious challenges while continuing its democratic journey.

According to him, true independence should mean freedom from poverty, insecurity, illiteracy, disease and division.

“True independence today is not just about casting off the chains of the past, it is about breaking free from poverty, insecurity, illiteracy, disease and division that impede the nation’s democratic governance,” Dantalle said.

IPAC urged governments to uphold Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

“Citizens desire and deserve dividends of democracy, not excuses from elected public officers,” Dantalle said.

With the 2027 general elections approaching, the council urged Nigerians to participate actively in the electoral process and vote for their preferred candidates.

It also charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide a level playing field for political parties and candidates and ensure that future elections are free, fair, credible, transparent and inclusive.

IPAC further urged Nigerians to remain committed to the country and work collectively towards building a better future.

The council also acknowledged the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers who fought for independence from British colonial rule, saying their efforts must not be in vain.

IPAC noted that Nigeria had recorded 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999, urging the country to consolidate its democratic gains.

“After 66 years of independence and 27 years of unbroken democracy in Nigeria, we should get it right,” Dantalle said.

The council reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainable democracy and national development.