PDP Crisis Deepens as NEC Meeting Faces INEC Dispute, Leadership Confusion

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is facing escalating internal tensions as its National Working Committee (NWC) has called an emergency meeting following a stalemate with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over internal leadership recognition.

The central issue is the ongoing dispute over who holds the National Secretary position—between Sunday Udeh-Okoye and Samuel Anyanwu, with the latter backed by Minister Nyesom Wike. This confusion has disrupted communication with INEC and triggered delays in scheduled party activities.

INEC’s Position
INEC has advised PDP to resolve its internal disagreements through consultation with its constitution, leadership, and court rulings, without issuing a clear position on who it recognizes as National Secretary. It also rejected PDP’s NEC meeting notification, which was signed only by the Acting Chairman, Umar Damagum, without the co-signature of the National Secretary—contrary to past practices.

INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu emphasized the commission’s concern over conflicting letters and urged the party to settle the dispute to ensure procedural compliance.

Party’s Response and Infighting
PDP Acting Chairman Damagum said the party would consult internally and respond within 48 hours, while insisting INEC has no power to cancel NEC meetings. However, he later disowned comments made by PDP spokesperson Debo Ologunagba, calling them “personal and premature,” a move that drew backlash from former party leaders.

Former publicity secretaries Olisa Metuh and Kola Ologbondiyan accused Damagum of violating the party’s constitution and undermining the NEC’s authority, describing his conduct as damaging to the party’s image.

Next Steps
The NWC is scheduled to meet for deliberation and may announce a firm position.

The NEC’s 100th meeting, originally planned for June 30, is now uncertain due to the unresolved leadership dispute.

Key Issues at Stake
Leadership legitimacy over the National Secretary seat.

INEC’s recognition and compliance requirements.

Party unity and public credibility as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.