The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially updated its portal to recognize Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed as the National Chairman of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP). This recognition follows the party's national convention held in Abuja on March 28, 2026.
New Leadership Structure
The update reflects the new leadership elected during the convention. According to a statement from the PRP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Muhammed Ishaq, released on Friday, several key positions have been filled. Kanu Sunday Uchenna is now listed as National Secretary, while Dr. Bayawo Yunusa Abdullahi has emerged as National Treasurer. Mr. Chuka Patrick was recognized as National Financial Secretary, and Barrister Vincent Danladi Okudu as National Legal Adviser.
Other Elected Officials
The PRP, one of Nigeria's oldest surviving political parties, elected Baba-Ahmed to lead its National Working Committee (NWC) alongside other officials. Other members of the new leadership include Mallam Buhari Haruna as Deputy National Chairman (North), Comrade Muhammed Bello Ishaq as National Publicity Secretary, Haruna Nanven as National Organising Secretary, and Mallam Musa Buba as National Auditor. Ozu Important Fredrick was elected as National Youth Leader, alongside zonal leaders such as Abubakar Hamanjoda (North East), Abba Namatazu (North West), Ifeanyi Peter Okafor (South East), and Olajide Wolimoh (South West), who now serve as National Vice Chairmen for their respective zones.
Controversy and Rejection
The emergence of the new leadership has not been without controversy. A group operating under the name “PRP-Vanguard Collective” rejected the outcome of the convention, describing it as a “sham” and alleging an attempt to hijack the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The faction, led by Abdulmajid Yakubu Daudu, questioned Baba-Ahmed’s legitimacy, insisting he was not originally a member of the party and accusing the new leadership of aligning with external political interests.
Party's Response
The party’s national leadership dismissed these claims, insisting there is no faction within its ranks. It described the group as unknown elements and part of efforts to destabilize the party. The leadership reaffirmed its unity and warned against what it termed external interference. The party stated that the update on INEC’s portal serves as formal recognition of its new leadership, solidifying its legitimacy.
