ABUJA — The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Abdulrahman Mohammad has rejected the validity of a recently held National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting and the formation of an interim National Working Committee (NWC), describing both actions as illegitimate and without constitutional backing.
The party dismissed claims that a 103rd NEC meeting took place, as well as the emergence of a caretaker leadership reportedly headed by Taminu Turaki, insisting that no such meeting was convened by its recognised leadership.
In a statement issued on Monday, the party said any resolutions or decisions arising from the said gathering were “null, void, and of no effect,” arguing that the process violated established party procedures and electoral regulations.
The Mohammad-led leadership, which is aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, also criticised what it described as inconsistencies among those behind the purported meeting. It noted that individuals who had previously opposed the idea of a caretaker arrangement were now attempting to impose one.
The faction further raised legal concerns, citing non-compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act, particularly the requirement to notify the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at least 21 days before such a meeting. It argued that there was no evidence of INEC’s involvement or attendance, rendering the exercise invalid.
The party also questioned the authority of key figures involved in the development, including Senator Adolphus Wabara, referencing internal disciplinary matters and challenging his standing to assume leadership roles within the party structure.
It clarified that the Board of Trustees remains strictly advisory and does not possess executive powers to constitute or approve a National Working Committee.
Describing the situation as part of a recurring pattern of internal disputes, the faction urged party members, stakeholders, and the public to disregard the decisions and outcomes of the disputed NEC meeting.
“The PDP remains committed to its constitution, the rule of law, and democratic principles,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the Taminu Turaki-led group had earlier announced the formation of a 13-member interim NWC following its own NEC meeting held at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, claiming that a leadership vacuum exists following a Supreme Court-related ruling on party conventions.
The internal disagreement highlights the ongoing leadership crisis within the PDP, with competing factions continuing to assert authority over the party’s national structure.
