2027: INEC Engages PDP Factions in Dialogue

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has held a meeting with the leadership of two factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as part of efforts to promote adherence to the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and the Commission’s regulations ahead of upcoming elections.

Speaking to party leaders, INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, explained that the engagement was prompted by several correspondences received from different sections of the party, seeking the Commission’s intervention on various concerns.

Professor Amupitan stated that INEC is constitutionally and statutorily empowered to monitor the activities of political parties, in addition to its core responsibility of conducting elections, noting that these mandates guide all the Commission’s actions and decisions.

He informed the gathering that INEC has already released its timetable and schedule of activities to political parties as part of preparations for the forthcoming elections, assuring that the Commission remains committed to conducting smooth and credible polls.

The INEC Chairman also highlighted the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections slated for 21 February 2026, alongside other elections scheduled to hold in 2026.

He stressed that early engagement with stakeholders is crucial to ensuring orderly participation and strict compliance with established procedures.

According to him, the meeting was convened to create an avenue for open and constructive dialogue, particularly in light of the conflicting correspondences received from the PDP, with the aim of achieving a common understanding and charting a clear way forward.

Professor Amupitan assured party leaders that the Commission would be guided strictly by the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act, and INEC’s regulations and guidelines, which he described as the three legal pillars supporting the Commission’s operations.

He reaffirmed INEC’s resolve to uphold the sanctity of the law at all times, emphasizing that strict adherence to the legal framework is essential to safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process.

The INEC Chairman encouraged party leaders to engage in frank and productive discussions, expressing confidence that the interactive session would help resolve outstanding issues and foster a more coordinated approach ahead of the elections.

He thanked the party officials for honouring the Commission’s invitation and reiterated INEC’s commitment to sustained stakeholder engagement in the interest of credible and transparent elections.