The crisis has been compounded by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s refusal to recognize the newly elected Turaki-led executives, raising fears about the party’s eligibility to field candidates in the 2027 general elections.
The PDP’s troubles intensified when Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the party to suspend its national convention, citing Lamido’s exclusion from the chairmanship race.
Lamido, a key contender for the position, had alleged being barred from purchasing nomination forms. Justice Lifu’s ruling also restrained INEC from monitoring or recognizing any convention conducted without Lamido’s participation.
However, the Damagun-led faction proceeded with the convention on November 11, relying on a conflicting order from Justice Ladiran Akintola of the Oyo State High Court, which permitted the exercise. The faction claims ignorance of Justice Lifu’s injunction, further muddying the legal waters.
INEC’s official website still lists Umar Damagun as PDP National Chairman and Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary, signaling non-recognition of the Turaki-led executives. INEC’s Director of Voter Education, Victoria Eta-Messi, declined to comment on the commission’s absence at the convention or its delayed endorsement. Party insiders suggest INEC’s stance stems from its non-participation in the convention—a move the Wike camp argues invalidates the outcome.
PDP chieftains, including Segun Sowunmi, warn that the party risks disqualification in 2027 if rival factions continue to claim leadership. Under the Electoral Act, the National Chairman and Secretary must jointly sign candidate nominations. Sowunmi noted, “Without a unified leadership, our submissions to INEC may be void.”
Lamido, a founding PDP member, expressed fears that the party’s failure to resolve its crisis could lead to its demise. “The Ibadan convention lacked legality, and INEC’s silence confirms this,” he said. His camp insists the party must adhere to court orders to avoid further disintegration.
With INEC’s position unclear and parallel leadership claims persisting, the PDP’s future hangs in the balance. Legal experts warn that prolonged infighting could erode public confidence and weaken the party’s electoral prospects. As the standoff continues, stakeholders urge reconciliation to salvage Nigeria’s foremost opposition party.