The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the recognition of Alhaji Abdulrahman Muhammad, backed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, as Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Muhammad and Senator Samuel Anyanwu had jointly written to INEC notifying the commission of the postponement of the PDP Ekiti State congress and governorship primary scheduled for November 8, 2025. In the letter dated November 5, they cited “logistics reasons” and promised to communicate a new date.
However, INEC, in a response dated November 10 and signed by its Secretary, Mrs. Rose Oriaran-Anthony, rejected the notice, stating that it did not comply with the guidelines for political parties. The commission noted that only the duly recognised National Chairman, Amb. Umar Damagum, and National Secretary could jointly sign such notices.
“The commission hereby informs you that it has rejected your submission for non-compliance with the requirements of the Electoral Act,” INEC stated.
In a statement by its Chairman, Sen. Adolphus Wabara, the BoT said that the attackers attempted to prevent members of the newly elected National Working Committee (NWC), led by National Chairman Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, from accessing the secretariat. The governors of Bauchi State, Sen. Bala Mohammed, and Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, were among those caught in the chaos.
“Tear gas was fired at the governors and party leaders while thugs unleashed violence on the secretariat,” the BoT said.
The board also expressed dismay at the presence of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who they noted arrived at the scene with heavy security in “apparent solidarity with the invaders.”
The BoT reaffirmed its full endorsement of the newly elected NWC and the outcome of the Ibadan Elective National Convention held on November 15–16, declaring it compliant with the party’s constitution, Electoral Act, and all relevant regulations.
It further criticised statements and actions of expelled members attempting to challenge the convention’s legitimacy, calling them “mischievous” and a direct assault on internal democracy.
The BoT urged the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the attacks and ensure accountability.
“Democracy thrives only where institutions remain impartial and insulated from partisan manipulation,” it said.
The board pledged continued support for the NWC and encouraged them to stay focused on rebuilding the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.
On Wednesday, heavily armed police officers sealed off the PDP national headquarters with barbed wire, following Tuesday’s violent confrontation between the Turaki-led NWC and the Wike-backed faction.
Although no rival groups appeared at the secretariat, both camps reportedly held separate closed-door meetings.
After assuming office on Tuesday, Turaki declared:
“We have driven them out of the secretariat. I have taken my office and assumed leadership as the elected national chairman.”
He also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call Minister Wike to order.
