PDP says INEC cannot impose leadership amid court cases

Nigeria’s PDP Rejects INEC Engagement with Rival Faction

Abuja — Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has dismissed a recent meeting between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and a breakaway faction, asserting that the electoral body has no authority to intervene in its internal affairs.

The statement, issued Wednesday by PDP National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong, responds to INEC’s meeting with individuals the PDP describes as “former members” claiming to represent a “National Caretaker Committee.” The PDP contends this committee is not recognized by its constitution and labeled the engagement as an inappropriate action capable of inflaming tension.

The party expressed disappointment that INEC proceeded despite multiple pending legal challenges at the Court of Appeal concerning the PDP’s leadership. “The expectation is that an impartial umpire would have exercised restraint, given the pendency of these cases,” the statement read, emphasizing that the electoral commission cannot “determine or impose leadership” on the party.

The PDP urged members nationwide to remain calm, anticipating that the Court of Appeal would soon adjudicate all related cases. It reiterated that the party remains cohesive under the leadership of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, and described its internal “Rebirth Movement” as intact. The party framed the situation as a temporary challenge, promising to emerge “stronger and more united” as a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

This public clash highlights the ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP, a critical development as Nigeria prepares for future elections. The dispute underscores the complex relationship between political parties and the electoral commission, particularly when internal party disputes intersect with INEC’s regulatory role. Observers note that the resolution of the pending court cases will be pivotal in determining the officially recognized leadership of the PDP, which in turn affects its ability to present a consolidated front against the incumbent government. The party’s firm rejection of INEC’s engagement signals a determination to settle the matter internally and judicially, without external arbitration.