INEC Officially Recognizes Abdulrahman Mohammed as PDP National Chairman Amid Factional Dispute
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially updated its website to reflect Abdulrahman Mohammed as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This significant development comes amidst a deep-seated factional crisis within the party, with Mohammed representing the faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
Recognition of PDP National Working Committee Members
In addition to Abdulrahman Mohammed, INEC has also recognized several other key figures as part of the PDP National Working Committee. The updated list includes Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary, Ahmed Yayari Mohammed as National Treasurer, Daniel Woyengikuro as National Financial Secretary, and Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade, SAN, as National Legal Adviser. This move by the electoral body underscores its role in formalizing party leadership structures ahead of upcoming elections.
Ongoing Factional Conflict and Reconciliation Efforts
This recognition occurs despite Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, and his faction also laying claim to the PDP National Chairman position. Last week, Turaki issued a detailed statement urging party members to de-escalate tensions and explore pathways towards a lasting resolution. He emphasized that this reconciliatory move follows advice from the Court of Appeal in Ibadan, which encouraged parties involved in the PDP crisis to seek reconciliation to prevent further strife.
Turaki highlighted that the party's Board of Trustees, led by Senator Adolphus Wabara, has established a high-powered committee to engage with estranged members. This initiative aims to resolve outstanding issues and reposition the PDP for the forthcoming elections. As part of these efforts, the National Working Committee has postponed scheduled National Executive Committee and National Caucus meetings, and has toned down combative communications across all fronts.
Challenges and Calls for Unity
In his statement, Turaki expressed disappointment over the lack of reciprocal gestures from rival factions, noting the weaponization of hurtful rhetoric and derogatory statements. He stressed the importance of acting in the overall interest of party members who rely on the PDP platform to pursue elective offices. "We urge our supporters across the board to immediately de-escalate high-tempered communications and actions, so as not to jeopardise the ongoing peace efforts," he stated.
Turaki also reassured aspirants that the PDP will field candidates for all elective offices, in compliance with Article 6(2) of the party's constitution as amended in 2017. He appreciated Nigerians for their continued interest in the party through registrations, acknowledging the unshaken faith of core supporters despite recent challenges.
Broader Implications for Nigerian Democracy
Reflecting on the broader political landscape, Turaki emphasized the importance of a virile opposition and active civil society in holding government accountable. As Nigeria's only surviving legacy party in the current republic, having led the country for 16 years, the PDP remains committed to defending and consolidating democracy. He called on those in authority to align their actions with the will of the people, reiterating that ultimate power resides with the citizens.
Before concluding, Turaki conveyed the National Working Committee's unanimous vote of confidence in Governors Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde for their resilience and steadfast leadership. He ended by reassuring Nigerians that the PDP is alive and will participate in the forthcoming elections, offering a credible platform for robust political contests at all levels.
