The Tanimu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has no authority to appoint leadership for the party.
PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, made the statement while responding to INEC’s quarterly consultative meeting with political parties, which was attended by the Abdulraman Mohammed-led National Caretaker Committee (NCC).
“We are aware that INEC invited party leaders to a meeting today (Thursday),” Ememobong said. “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.”
He described the move as vexatious and capable of causing unrest, adding that PDP would respond through all available legal channels.
“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 said.
He assured that INEC will not determine PDP’s leadership, urging members to remain calm and confident that the Court of Appeal will soon resolve the ongoing leadership disputes.
“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,” Ememobong said.
