The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Ondo State has described the Social Democratic Party (SDP) as a formidable opposition, noting its rising influence and steady growth across the state.
Leaders of the council, who stated this during a courtesy visit to the party’s secretariat in Akure, said the SDP “is gradually carving a stronger presence in Ondo State’s political landscape, and its growth has not gone unnoticed.”
The Chairman of IPAC in the state, Hon. Olaoluwa Adesanya, reaffirmed IPAC’s dedication to promoting a responsible and constructive form of opposition, stressing that its role goes beyond mere criticism of government policies.
According to Adesanya, opposition must be issue-based, objective, and guided by the collective interest of the people rather than political sentiments.
He emphasised that the council will continue to engage the government constructively, offering credible alternatives and policy suggestions that can help strengthen democracy and improve governance in the state.
He further noted that responsible opposition is a vital part of democratic growth, as it helps to keep government on its toes, ensures accountability, and provides the citizens with a voice in decision-making.
He assured that the council will remain committed to this path while fostering unity among political parties in the state.
Adesanya said the council recognised the SDP’s rising political profile and commended the party’s chairman, Barrister Gbenga Akinbuli, for his leadership qualities and the transformation of the SDP in the state.
He noted that the council regards the SDP as a formidable opposition force and acknowledged its contributions to the growth of democracy in Ondo State. According to him, the development represents a positive force in consolidating democratic governance.
“We recognise the steady growth of the SDP and its contributions to deepening democracy in Ondo State. Our mandate as IPAC is not to oppose blindly but to engage government constructively,” Adesanya said.
Also speaking, the IPAC Secretary, Comrade Alex Adeniyi, described Akinbuli’s recognition within the council as “timely and well-deserved,” noting that it reflects his consistent efforts in building consensus among political actors.
In his response, Akinbuli expressed appreciation for the solidarity visit and pledged that the SDP would continue to support IPAC’s programmes and collaborate with other parties in promoting good governance.
“This recognition is a call to do more,” he said. “Our focus remains on building a viable alternative and ensuring that democracy delivers real benefits to the people of Ondo State.”
He assured that the SDP would work hand in hand with other political parties to promote unity and strengthen democratic culture across the state.
The visit, which brought together leaders of various political parties, also provided a platform to commend the SDP’s growing influence and relevance in Ondo’s political space.
Other leaders present included Hon. Jenyo Ataunoko, Chairman of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), and Elder Funso Felix Owaro, IPAC Treasurer and Chairman of the Action Revival Movement (ARM), who both commended Akinbuli’s inclusive leadership style and stressed the need for opposition parties to work together in entrenching democratic values in the state.
