Clarifying Controversy” — INEC Reveals Purpose Of PDP Faction Meeting

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday, 19th December 2025, confirmed that it hosted an interactive meeting with factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

INEC explained that the engagement was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and the Commission’s regulations ahead of upcoming elections.

INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, noted that the meeting became necessary following multiple correspondences from different PDP quarters requesting the Commission’s intervention on various party matters.

The meeting aimed to provide a platform for open and constructive dialogue, especially in light of conflicting communications from the party, with the goal of fostering a shared understanding and charting a clear path forward.

Professor Amupitan emphasized that all actions taken by INEC would be guided by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act, and the Commission’s regulations—described as the three legal frameworks underpinning its operations. He reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to transparency and the rule of law.

Highlighting the importance of early engagement, he drew attention to the upcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections scheduled for 21st February 2026, as well as other elections later in the year. According to him, proactive consultations with stakeholders help ensure orderly participation and adherence to established procedures.

Amupitan further reminded participants that INEC is constitutionally mandated not only to conduct elections but also to monitor the activities of political parties, and that this responsibility guides all of the Commission’s actions and decisions.

He expressed confidence that the interactive session would address outstanding issues, promote coordination, and contribute to smooth and credible polls. The Chairman thanked the party officials for their participation and reaffirmed INEC’s dedication to continuous stakeholder engagement in pursuit of transparent and credible elections.