PDP's Turaki-Led NWC Firmly Rejects INEC's Authority Over Party Leadership
The Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a strong reaffirmation that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) possesses no constitutional authority to appoint or recognize leadership for the party. This statement comes in response to recent developments that have sparked controversy within Nigeria's political landscape.
Constitutional Violation Alleged in INEC's Actions
PDP's National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, articulated the party's position while addressing INEC's quarterly consultative meeting with political parties. This meeting was notably attended by the Abdulraman Mohammed-led National Caretaker Committee (NCC), a group the Turaki-led NWC does not recognize. "We are aware that INEC invited party leaders to a meeting today," Ememobong stated. "We are also aware that INEC extended the invitation to some former members of our party, claiming to lead a so-called National Caretaker Committee, to represent PDP. However, there is no provision for such a committee in our constitution."
Ememobong described INEC's recognition of this committee as vexatious and potentially disruptive, warning that such actions could incite unrest within the party's ranks. He emphasized that the PDP would pursue all available legal avenues to challenge what they perceive as an overreach by the electoral body.
Legal Channels and Judicial Expectations
The PDP spokesperson highlighted that while INEC's current stance might not be surprising, it contradicts the expected impartiality of an electoral umpire. "While this is not unexpected from the current INEC leadership, it is generally expected that an impartial umpire would acknowledge the pending matters before the Court of Appeal, including the judgment being relied upon, which will ultimately affect the subject under consideration," Ememobong remarked.
He assured party members and the public that INEC will not have the final say in determining PDP's leadership structure. Ememobong urged calm and confidence among supporters, expressing optimism that the Court of Appeal would soon provide a resolution to the ongoing leadership disputes that have plagued the party.
Steadfast Movement Towards Party Rebirth
In closing, Ememobong reinforced the stability and security of the PDP's rebirth movement under Tanimu Turaki's leadership. "The rebirth movement of our party, under the able leadership of Tanimu Turaki, SAN, is steady and secure. It will overcome these challenges and emerge as a stronger, more united party, presenting Nigerians with a credible alternative to the ruling party," he asserted.
This development underscores the deepening tensions within Nigeria's opposition politics, as institutional bodies like INEC navigate complex party dynamics. The PDP's firm stance signals a commitment to constitutional processes and legal recourse in safeguarding its internal governance from external interference.
