INEC Cannot Appoint PDP Leadership – Turaki-Led NWC Insists on Party Autonomy
The leadership crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took a fresh turn as the Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) declared that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) cannot appoint PDP leadership under any circumstances.
In a strongly worded statement released to the press, the faction maintained that INEC’s constitutional role does not extend to selecting or imposing leaders on any political party. The group insisted that leadership decisions within the PDP remain strictly an internal matter governed by the party’s constitution.
According to the Turaki-led NWC, attempts to suggest that INEC has the authority to determine or recognize a particular leadership structure amount to a misinterpretation of the law. The faction argued that the Electoral Act empowers INEC to regulate and monitor political parties, especially in the conduct of primaries and submission of candidate lists, but does not grant it the power to appoint or dictate party leadership.
The statement emphasized that political parties in Nigeria are independent entities with their own constitutions and internal mechanisms for resolving disputes. The group warned against what it described as “external interference” capable of undermining democratic principles within the party system.
The development comes amid ongoing disagreements within the PDP over the legitimacy of certain leadership positions at the national level. The crisis has led to parallel meetings and conflicting directives from different factions, deepening tensions within the main opposition party.
Political analysts say the dispute could have significant implications for the party’s stability ahead of future elections. Some observers have urged party elders and stakeholders to prioritize reconciliation in order to prevent further fragmentation.
Meanwhile, INEC has consistently maintained that its role is limited to ensuring compliance with electoral laws and guidelines. The commission has, in previous instances, clarified that it does not interfere in internal party matters beyond its statutory responsibilities.
As the situation unfolds, members of the PDP and political watchers alike are closely monitoring developments, with many calling for dialogue and adherence to due process to resolve the impasse.
The Turaki-led NWC reiterated its commitment to upholding the PDP constitution and safeguarding the party’s internal democratic processes, insisting once again that INEC cannot appoint PDP leadership.
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