James Adamu
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) stated on Friday that it will await the judgment of the Court of Appeal before taking any action regarding the leadership crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The commission’s position came after a closed door meeting convened by INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan SAN, with representatives of the Kabiru Turaki-led National Working Committee and other former members claiming leadership within the opposition party.
The meeting, held at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, was called in an effort to mediate the prolonged internal dispute. Both sides were given the opportunity to present their positions, with each confirming that the matter is currently before the Court of Appeal.
At the end of the session, Prof. Amupitan noted that while the commission had hoped to facilitate a resolution, the judicial process must be respected. He emphasized that INEC is aware of the pending appeals and will refrain from recognising any faction until a final court decision is delivered.
Speaking on behalf of the Turaki-led faction, National Chairman Kabiru Turaki SAN affirmed that his group, which emerged from a national convention currently under legal challenge, will continue to function as the opposition.
“While awaiting the pronouncement of the court, we will continue to undertake the duties of an opposition party, which is to hold government to account on critical issues like security, infrastructure, education, and healthcare,” Turaki stated.
The PDP has been engulfed in a leadership struggle following competing conventions and multiple court orders, creating uncertainty about its official structure ahead of future elections.
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