PDP Factions Seek Truce with INEC Intervention Amid Crisis

The ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took a significant turn on Friday as the party’s conflicting factions engaged in discussions with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja. This meeting aimed to address the divisions that have plagued the party, with both sides reportedly expressing a willingness to reach a resolution.

Prof. Joash Amupitan, the Chairman of INEC, emphasized the importance of the meeting in seeking solutions to the party’s internal struggles. He indicated that the commission is committed to ensuring the PDP remains a viable opposition party in Nigeria. The PDP has been fragmented into two factions: one led by Senator Samuel Anyanwu, supported by Minister Nyesom Wike, and the other led by Kabiru Turaki, backed by Governors Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State and Seyi Makinde of Oyo State.

After the closed-door discussions at INEC’s National Headquarters, both Anyanwu and Turaki spoke to journalists about the proceedings. Anyanwu described the meeting as a constructive step, praising Amupitan for his leadership. He noted that the INEC’s approach reflected a genuine concern for the party’s future. “They are looking at the issues and options on how to bring peace for us,” Anyanwu stated. He acknowledged the underlying causes of the crisis, citing “grief, aggression, and ego” among party members.

Turaki, who holds the position of National Chairman of PDP from the Oyo convention, remarked on the inclusivity of the meeting. He indicated that former members of the party, previously expelled, were also invited to provide their perspectives on the ongoing issues. “We’ve made presentation of what we think the issues are,” Turaki said, highlighting that INEC is aware of pending legal matters but is still committed to exploring potential solutions.

Regarding the factions’ recognition, Turaki refrained from explicitly stating which faction INEC acknowledged. He drew an analogy to elders mediating land disputes, underscoring the importance of hearing all voices involved. “If you are inviting us, and then you are not inviting other people who are claiming to be what they are not, then probably it will be us talking to ourselves,” he explained.

Amupitan underscored the urgency of resolving internal conflicts, especially with upcoming elections. The FCT election is scheduled for February 1, 2026, followed by elections in Ekiti and Osun in June and July 2026, respectively. He underscored the need for a united front to ensure smooth electoral processes. “We have decided to invite all the parties, especially the fact that we have received conflicting correspondences from the PDP,” he said, expressing hopes for a productive dialogue.

The INEC Chairman reiterated the commission’s commitment to upholding the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and adhering to the Electoral Acts. He affirmed that the commission is focused on maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, citing the need for cooperation among political parties to achieve this goal.

As the PDP navigates these turbulent waters, the outcome of these discussions remains crucial for the party’s future and its role in Nigeria’s political landscape. The commitment shown by both factions to engage with INEC could pave the way for a much-needed reconciliation.