Fresh tension has emerged within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after a faction linked to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over its involvement in the party’s lingering leadership dispute.
The camp, associated with senior politician Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, faulted the electoral commission for recognizing a rival PDP group during a recent political stakeholders’ meeting held in Abuja.
PDP Faction Reacts To INEC Meeting In Abuja
The controversy followed Thursday’s gathering between INEC and leaders of registered political parties across the country.
According to members of the Makinde-aligned PDP faction, the commission invited representatives connected to the group led by Abdulrahman Mohammed, a camp reportedly believed to enjoy the backing of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
The development immediately triggered reactions from the rival bloc, which described the invitation as inappropriate considering unresolved court cases surrounding the PDP leadership tussle.
Turaki-Led Group Questions INEC’s Neutrality
In a statement released through the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the group accused INEC of acting hastily despite ongoing legal battles involving the opposition party.
The faction argued that the electoral body should have exercised restraint until the courts deliver final judgments on the matter.
Gossip News Now reports that the camp also warned that actions capable of appearing partisan could deepen tensions within the PDP and create unnecessary confusion among members nationwide.
According to the statement, leadership disputes within political parties should ultimately be resolved through constitutional and judicial processes rather than administrative recognition by electoral authorities.
Faction Insists Court Cases Are Still Ongoing
The Kabiru Tanimu Turaki camp maintained that multiple legal proceedings connected to the PDP crisis are still pending before the Court of Appeal.
Because of this, the group believes INEC should avoid actions that may appear to validate one faction over another before the judicial process is concluded.
The faction further stated that it is currently considering legal options in response to the commission’s decision.
Despite expressing frustration over the situation, members of the group urged PDP supporters to remain calm while awaiting the outcome of the court proceedings.
PDP Constitution Mentioned In Leadership Dispute
Another major issue raised by the faction involved the legitimacy of the leadership structure recognized by the rival camp.
According to the statement, the so-called National Caretaker Committee being referenced by opponents is not recognized under the PDP constitution.
The faction therefore argued that any attempt to legitimize such a structure outside constitutional provisions could worsen internal disagreements within the party.
Confidence Expressed In Appeal Court Outcome
Even with the ongoing tension, the Makinde-aligned faction expressed confidence that the appellate court would eventually deliver a judgment favorable to its position.
Leaders within the camp insisted that the PDP would survive the crisis and eventually emerge stronger after resolving its internal disagreements.
The group also reaffirmed support for what it described as the PDP “Rebirth Movement” under Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, insisting the movement remains committed to repositioning the opposition party.
Political Analysis And Reactions
The latest disagreement highlights the deep divisions still affecting the PDP as the opposition party prepares for future political contests ahead of 2027.
Political analysts believe the unresolved leadership battle could weaken the party’s ability to present a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) if not settled quickly.
Observers also noted that INEC’s involvement in internal party disputes often attracts controversy, especially when rival factions believe the commission is favoring one side.
For many political watchers, the ongoing PDP crisis reflects broader struggles over influence, control, and strategic positioning within Nigeria’s opposition politics.
