PDP Downplays INEC Meeting Over Pending Leadership Appeal

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed concerns over a meeting convened by Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), asserting there is “no cause for alarm” despite labeling the electoral body’s invitation as controversial. The statement, issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, on February 5, 2026, underscores an ongoing internal leadership dispute now intersecting with electoral authorities.

According to the PDP, INEC invited leaders of political parties to the meeting but also extended an invitation to “some former members of our party who are claiming to head a so-called National Caretaker Committee.” The party firmly rejected the legitimacy of such a committee, stating, “there is no such provision in our constitution for such a committee to represent the PDP.” While describing INEC’s engagement with the faction as “troubling” and potentially inflammatory, the PDP emphasized it would pursue lawful channels to address the issue.

Central to the party’s objection is the pendency of the leadership crisis in the courts. The PDP noted that the dispute is already before the Court of Appeal, including a specific judgment INEC is reportedly relying upon. The party argued that INEC, as an impartial body, should have exercised restraint pending the appellate court’s final decision, which it expects will definitively resolve the party’s legitimate leadership. “INEC has no power to decide who leads the party,” the statement declared, adding, “We can assure that INEC will not choose a leadership for our party.”

The PDP called on its members nationwide to remain calm during the legal process. “We urge all our members to remain calm and hopeful that soonest the Court of Appeal will hear and determine all the cases concerning the leadership of our party,” the statement read.

Reaffirming confidence in its internal structures, the PDP highlighted its “rebirth movement” as steady and secure under the leadership of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, asserting it would overcome the current challenges.

This public confrontation highlights the fragile state of internal democracy within one of Nigeria’s major opposition parties and raises questions about the appropriate role of INEC in mediating intraparty conflicts, especially when litigation is ongoing. The outcome of the Court of Appeal’s deliberations is poised to determine the PDP’s recognized leadership ahead of future electoral cycles, with significant implications for Nigeria’s political opposition landscape.