The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday convened a crucial meeting with rival factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) amid an ongoing leadership dispute that has divided Nigeria's main opposition party.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN), hosted representatives from the faction led by National Chairman Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN) and the group headed by Abdulrahman Mohammed, which is backed by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike.
The meeting, held at INEC headquarters, was prompted by conflicting correspondence from both sides claiming legitimate leadership of the PDP.
Turaki's group, which emerged from a controversial national convention, attended alongside secretariat staff and former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu.
The Mohammed faction was represented by members of its caretaker committee, including Senator Sam Anyanwu.Prof. Amupitan explained that the session aimed to hear directly from both parties, emphasising INEC's commitment to neutrality and adherence to the Constitution, Electoral Act, and commission regulations.
Both factions presented their positions, confirming that the core issues are sub judice at the Court of Appeal.
Concluding the discussions, the INEC Chairman stated that the commission would await the final judgment of the court before taking further action on the party's leadership status.
Speaking afterwards, Turaki, describing his National Working Committee as the authentic leadership from a valid (though contested) convention, affirmed: "While awaiting the pronouncement of the court, we will continue to undertake the duties of an opposition party, which is to hold government to account on critical issues like security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, etc."
The intervention comes ahead of scheduled elections, including FCT area council polls and governorship races in Osun and Ekiti states, where clarity on PDP's recognised leadership is essential for candidate nominations and party operations.
The PDP has been embroiled in internal crises following factional conventions and mutual expulsions, with rival claims intensifying in recent months.
INEC's neutral stance underscores its role in monitoring political parties while respecting ongoing judicial processes.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users
No comments
Post a Comment
Kindly drop a comment below.
(Comments are moderated. Clean comments will be approved immediately)
Advert Enquires - Reach out to us at NigerianEye@gmail.com