The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has intervened in the escalating leadership crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), summoning the party’s rival factions to an urgent reconciliation meeting at its headquarters in Abuja.
The high-level meeting, which is currently underway, has brought together leaders of the two opposing camps, the faction led by former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki and the group backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, under the leadership of Abdulrahman Mohammed.
INEC’s intervention comes amid growing concerns over the deepening internal divisions within the opposition party, which many observers fear could further weaken its political standing ahead of future elections.
Sources at the commission confirmed that Turaki arrived at the meeting accompanied by key members of his National Working Committee (NWC), officials of the party secretariat and former Governor of Niger State, Dr. Babangida Aliyu, a respected elder within the PDP.
On the other side, Mohammed led a delegation made up of members of his National Caretaker Committee, including the committee’s secretary and former Senate Minority Leader, Senator Sam Anyanwu.
Although details of the discussions remain undisclosed, the meeting is believed to be aimed at resolving the leadership tussle, clarifying the legitimate leadership structure of the party, and ensuring compliance with electoral laws and INEC regulations.
INEC’s decision to summon both factions underscores the seriousness of the crisis and the commission’s determination to prevent prolonged internal conflicts from undermining the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
Party stakeholders and political watchers are now keenly observing the outcome of the meeting, hopeful that it could mark a turning point in restoring unity within the PDP.
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