By Akpan David, Calabar
The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), Cross River State, has condemned the reported violence during the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship consultation in Calabar South Local Government Area on Friday.
IPAC said the incident, which allegedly involved gunfire, left some persons injured and vehicles damaged.
In a statement on Saturday, the State Chairman of IPAC, Engr. Effiom Edet Okon, described the development as disturbing and unacceptable.
He called on political parties, aspirants, candidates and their supporters to exercise restraint as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections intensify.
Okon said political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue and established party mechanisms rather than confrontation, threats, intimidation or violence.
He also urged political leaders to caution their supporters against provocation and retaliation.
The IPAC chairman called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the Calabar South incident, identify those responsible and prosecute anyone found culpable, regardless of political affiliation or status.
He further advised political parties and their supporters to avoid unverified allegations and inflammatory statements capable of escalating tension while investigations into the incident continue.
Okon said Cross River must preserve its tradition of peaceful political engagement and ensure that political activities are conducted without intimidation or violence.
He stressed that the pursuit of political office should not be allowed to undermine the peace and security of the state.
