The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained its decision to intervene in the ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) by inviting the party’s two rival factions for discussions at its national headquarters in Abuja.
INEC’s intervention followed weeks of internal wrangling within the main opposition party, which has resulted in parallel leadership claims, conflicting decisions and uncertainty over the party’s official position ahead of forthcoming electoral activities.
New Daily Prime had earlier reported that the electoral body convened a meeting on Friday, bringing together representatives of the feuding factions in an effort to address the growing confusion and safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Speaking on the matter, INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, said the commission was compelled to act after receiving conflicting correspondences from the opposing sides, each claiming legitimacy and authority within the party.
According to him, the situation posed a serious challenge to the commission’s responsibilities, particularly as it relates to the conduct of elections, recognition of party leadership, and the submission of valid candidates and documents.
“We felt that by rubbing minds together, it would be a good opportunity for us to forge the way forward concerning the elections,” Amupitan said.
He explained that INEC’s role was not to take sides or resolve internal party disputes, but to ensure strict compliance with the law and prevent any development that could undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
The INEC chairman stressed that the commission operates within a clearly defined legal framework, guided by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act, and the commission’s own regulations.
“Actually, INEC sits on the tripod of three legal regimes – the Constitution, the Electoral Act and the regulations that have been made,” he stated. “So we are determined to ensure that we follow the provisions of the various laws, the Constitution, and the regulations that we have made.”
Observers say INEC’s move underscores growing concerns that unresolved internal conflicts within political parties, particularly major ones like the PDP, could spill over into the electoral process if not properly managed.
The PDP has in recent months been engulfed in leadership and structural disputes at the national level, leading to legal battles, suspensions and counter-suspensions, as well as uncertainty over who has the authority to engage with INEC on behalf of the party.
Analysts note that conflicting submissions from political parties often complicate INEC’s work, especially during election periods, when clarity on party leadership and candidate nominations is critical.
By convening the meeting, INEC is expected to restate its requirements and legal obligations to all parties involved, while urging them to resolve their differences in line with constitutional and statutory provisions.
The commission reiterated its commitment to transparency, fairness and strict adherence to the law, assuring Nigerians that it would not compromise electoral standards regardless of political pressure.
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