The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the notice submitted by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for its upcoming 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, citing a violation of procedural guidelines.
In a letter dated June 13, 2025 and addressed to the party’s national chairman, the Commission noted that the notification did not comply with the provisions of the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties.
INEC noted that the notice was signed only by the Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, without the co-signature of the National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu.
The Commission referenced Part 2(12)3 of the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties, which mandates joint signing of notices for conventions, congresses, conferences, or meetings.
Although the PDP submitted the notice within the 21-day timeframe required by law, the procedural issue led to its rejection.
The PDP’s NEC meeting is expected to address key party issues, including internal leadership disputes, ratification of zonal congresses, and committee reports.
The party has been embroiled in a deep internal crisis, triggered by the fallout from the 2023 elections and recent defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The rejection of the notice may impact the PDP’s ability to hold its NEC meeting as planned. The party will need to rectify the procedural issue and resubmit the notice to INEC for approval.
The PDP is facing several challenges, including internal leadership disputes, defections, and efforts to form a formidable opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party’s NEC meeting is expected to address these issues and provide direction for the party’s future.
