The Ebonyi commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Elijah Willie, says the mediation role played by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) helps to preserve the nation’s democracy.

Mr Willie disclosed this on Saturday while receiving the newly-inaugurated state executive of IPAC, noting that Nigerians should appreciate the council for playing such roles.

“Ensuring harmony within the various political parties has brought the needed stability, which has helped democracy thrive in the country.

“I commend Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi for ensuring a level playing field for all political parties in the state to operate and thrive,” he said.

He further commended IPAC for recognising that the corps was a major stakeholder in protecting the lives and properties of the citizens, including public infrastructure.

“Many people do not know that we play critical security roles for political parties and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“We arrest, detain, investigate, prosecute and resolve conflicts among people, safeguard schools through the Safe School Initiative, prevent oil bunkering, and protect public infrastructure from vandals,” the commandant said.

He assured Ebonyi people of adequate protection from the corps and vowed to discharge his duties well as he did in Niger, where he was formerly in charge.

“I also assure IPAC of the corps’ collaboration in achieving its set goals,” he said.

The state chairman of IPAC, Ernest Nweze, said the visit was to solicit the corps’ support in its activities, especially during the forthcoming Local Government Area (LGA) elections in the state.

“Plans have been concluded to mobilise grassroots support for the election and ensure peace among the various political parties.

“We are satisfied with the NSCDC’s and sister agencies’ impact on security in the state, and this made us seek their collaboration to achieve our goals,” he said.

(NAN)