The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called the two opposing factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to a reconciliation meeting at its Abuja headquarters.
The meeting brought together the faction led by Tanimu Turaki and the group aligned with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, represented by Abdulrahman Mohammed.
Turaki attended with members of his National Working Committee (NWC), secretariat officials, and former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu.
Abdulrahman Mohammed arrived with members of the PDP national caretaker committee, including its secretary, Senator Sam Anyanwu.
Speaking at the opening of the meeting, INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan said the commission’s intervention was necessary due to a series of conflicting correspondence received from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Conflicting Correspondence, Upcoming Elections Made The Meeting Necessary
“This meeting has become necessary because we have received several letters from different sides requesting various actions. We are also aware that INEC is legally mandated under the Constitution and the Electoral Act to monitor the activities of political parties,” he said.
He added that the intervention was prompted by preparations for the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections scheduled for February 21, 2026, as well as the governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, slated for June and July 2026, respectively.
“As part of the build-up to these elections, we have shared our schedule of activities with all political parties. We are committed to ensuring smooth elections in the FCT Area Councils and in Ekiti and Osun states,” Prof. Amupitan said.
He noted that the conflicting correspondence from the PDP made it necessary for party leaders to come together to find a way forward.
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“I am pleased that top officials from both sides are present so that we can discuss as a family, resolve the issues, and move forward,” he said.
The INEC chairman emphasized that the commission’s actions are guided strictly by the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and its internal regulations, assuring all parties of INEC’s neutrality.
“We are mindful of the need to uphold the sanctity of the Nigerian Constitution.
INEC operates under three legal regimes: the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and its regulations. We are committed to following the provisions of these laws,” he added.
Prof. Amupitan concluded by urging participants to engage in open and frank discussions to achieve the objectives of the meeting.
Following the opening remarks, the meeting moved into a closed-door session.
It is expected to produce recommendations on resolving the PDP’s internal disputes ahead of the upcoming elections.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
