The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday intervened in the ongoing leadership dispute within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), summoning both factions to its Abuja headquarters.
The meeting brought together the Wike-backed Turaki-led PDP factions, including the group headed by Abdulrahman Mohammed and the Tanimu Turaki-led faction.
Turaki attended with members of his National Working Committee, secretariat staff, and former Niger State Governor, Babangida Aliyu, while Mohammed’s faction was represented by members of the national caretaker committee, including its secretary, Senator Sam Anyanwu. The move comes amid rising concerns over the PDP’s preparedness for upcoming elections.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, stated that the intervention became necessary after the commission received multiple conflicting correspondences from the party. “We are aware that INEC is charged statutorily to monitor the activities of political parties.
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This meeting provides a platform for both sides to align ahead of the FCT Area Council elections scheduled for February 21, 2026, as well as governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states,” he said.
The Wike-backed Turaki-led PDP factions were urged to engage in open discussions to resolve disputes and ensure smooth participation in the 2026 polls.
“We hope this meeting allows both factions to forge a way forward and maintain the sanctity of the Constitution, Electoral Act, and INEC regulations,” Amupitan added.
Following opening remarks, the session proceeded behind closed doors. Observers note that the outcomes of this engagement could set a precedent for managing intra-party disputes in the run-up to the national elections.