The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has minimized concerns over the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) meeting with political party leaders, emphasizing that the commission cannot impose leadership on the party.

This was conveyed in a statement released on Wednesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong.

According to the PDP, INEC invited individuals it described as former party members “claiming to represent a National Caretaker Committee,” a body the party says is not recognized under its constitution.

The party warned that INEC’s actions could create tension and threaten peace, but stressed that any issues would be handled through lawful channels.
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While noting that the development was not unexpected, the PDP expressed disappointment that the electoral commission did not consider pending cases before the Court of Appeal, including judgments cited by INEC, which could have a significant impact on the matter.

“The expectation is that an impartial umpire would have exercised restraint, given the pendency of these cases,” the party stated, adding that INEC has no authority to determine or impose leadership on the PDP.

The party called on its members nationwide to remain calm, assuring that the Court of Appeal would soon hear and decide all cases concerning the party’s leadership.

Reaffirming its unity, the PDP said its ongoing “Rebirth Movement” remains firmly under the leadership of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, expressing confidence that the party will overcome its current challenges.

The statement further highlighted that the party would emerge stronger and more united, positioning itself as a credible alternative to the ruling party, which it accused of causing hardship for Nigerians.