The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, on Thursday convened a meeting with the leadership of the two rival factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
The engagement, initiated by the INEC chairman, comes as preparations intensify for the Federal Capital Territory area council elections, as well as the governorship polls scheduled to hold next year in Osun and Ekiti states.
In attendance at the meeting are representatives of the two contending party structures, the national working committee led by Tanimu Turaki and the faction headed by Samuel Anyanwu.
At the opening of the session, Amupitan explained that the commission was compelled to invite both sides in order to gain clarity on why INEC had been receiving official communications from two separate groups, each laying claim to the leadership of the PDP.
Shortly after his introductory remarks, journalists were asked to leave the meeting venue, as discussions continued behind closed doors.
Further details are expected as the situation develops.
What you should know
INEC’s intervention highlights growing concern over leadership disputes within the PDP and their potential impact on upcoming elections.
With multiple correspondences coming from rival party factions, the commission is seeking clarity to avoid administrative confusion and legal complications.
The outcome of the meeting may determine which faction INEC officially recognises for electoral purposes, a decision that could significantly shape the PDP’s participation and preparedness for the 2026 FCT area council elections and the Osun and Ekiti governorship polls.
