- INEC has not recognized the new PDP leadership one week after convention.
- Rival factions are locked in legal and political battles over control of the party.
- Senior PDP figures warn the crisis could threaten preparations for the 2027 elections.
The Peoples Democratic Party remains in a prolonged leadership dispute as the Independent National Electoral Commission has yet to recognise the outcome of the party’s 20th elective national convention held in Ibadan seven days ago.
EDITOR’S PICKS
- Lagos East Senator, Tokunbo Abiru Celebrates Men on International Men’s Day
- Nathaniel Bassey Condemns Kwara, Kebbi Attacks
- 42 Countries Confirm 2026 World Cup Qualification As UEFA Sets Playoff Paths
EKO HOT BLOG reports that the convention, organised by the bloc loyal to former National Chairman Umar Damagun, produced former Minister Kabiru Turaki as the new National Chairman and ratified the expulsion of Nyesom Wike and several top party figures over alleged anti party activities.
The faction loyal to Wike immediately countered the move by announcing its own expulsions, targeting Governors Seyi Makinde, Bala Mohammed and other senior PDP leaders. Days later, clashes erupted at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja as both camps attempted to seize control. Security operatives locked down the complex to prevent further unrest.
A review of INEC’s website on Friday showed that the commission still lists Damagun as National Chairman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary, prompting renewed tension within the party. Spokesperson for the Turaki camp, Ini Ememobong, said INEC had been fully briefed and should recognise the new National Working Committee. However, Anyanwu dismissed the claim, insisting only the Wike aligned leadership remains legitimate.
Legal battles are also mounting. Former Jigawa governor Sule Lamido secured Federal High Court orders restraining the convention, while an Oyo State High Court ruling permitted it to proceed, leaving the party in a web of conflicting judgments. Senior PDP figures warn that the crisis could jeopardise the party’s legal capacity to field candidates in the 2027 elections.
Despite the standoff, Turaki’s allies maintain that only the Ibadan convention leadership is empowered to submit candidate lists to INEC. Party elders say reconciliation efforts are ongoing, though divisions continue to widen across states.
