The Inter Party Advisory Council has raised an urgent call to action for governments across all levels to address the escalating hunger and poverty affecting Nigerians.
This follows the tragic loss of lives during food distribution efforts in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja.
In a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary Mrs. Chinyere Oge-Kalu, IPAC described these incidents as a painful reminder of the severe hardships confronting millions in the country.
The council emphasized the need for people-centered policies aimed at alleviating suffering and restoring dignity to citizens.
While joining Christians in celebrating Christmas, IPAC encouraged reflection on the season’s core themes of love, unity, peace, and forgiveness.
The council stressed the importance of patriotism and collective efforts in tackling Nigeria’s challenges, urging citizens to rise above ethnic, political, and personal divisions to achieve nation-building.
Highlighting the responsibility of government to ensure the security and welfare of its people, the council insisted that excuses have no place in fulfilling these constitutional duties.
It also urged for more sustainable measures to uplift Nigerians and prayed for a brighter future for the country during the festive period.
The council’s statement read,“The Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) joins millions of Christians in Nigeria in celebrating this year’s Christmas, commemorating the divine birthday of Jesus Christ to save mankind from sin. It is a season of joy and gladness.
“IPAC urges Christians to reflect deeply on the reason for the season and imbibe the spirit of love, peace, unity, tolerance, and forgiveness as demonstrated by Jesus Christ.
“The need for prayers and patriotism cannot be overemphasized as we renew our faith in God and rededicate ourselves to the service of our dear nation.
“Christmas is a season that rekindles hope in spite of numerous challenges facing the nation. With faith, confidence, and a shared vision of a brighter future, we shall surmount these challenges in order to build ‘a nation where no man is oppressed; and so with peace and plenty, Nigeria may be blessed,’ in the words of the national anthem.”
Extending its condolences to the families affected by the recent food distribution tragedies, IPAC reaffirmed the importance of people-oriented governance.
The council asserted that the best way to honor those who lost their lives is by implementing policies that improve living standards and uphold citizens’ dignity.
“Nigerians desire and deserve a fair deal with their governments, a nation blessed with abundant human and natural resources,” the statement continued.
“Council is deeply saddened over the deaths of dozens of citizens during the distributions of food items in Oyo, Anambra, and Abuja, FCT. Our hearts bleed over these irreparable losses which demonstrate the extent of hunger in the land.
“The best way to honor these fallen citizens and ‘hand on to our children, a banner without stain,’ is for governments at all levels to formulate and implement people-oriented policies, projects, and programs that will boost citizens’ standards of living and make them proud to be Nigerians anywhere they are.
“Nation building is a collective responsibility. Let us unite, set aside individual, ethnic, and political differences, and build a better society future generations will be proud of.”
In its statement, IPAC called for hope, faith, and unity among Nigerians, asserting that only through shared commitment and vision can the nation overcome its current challenges.
