New details have emerged regarding the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s meeting with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, stated that the meeting aimed to find a solution to the party’s ongoing crisis. Both factions addressed the media after their discussions with the electoral body. The meeting took place at the INEC national headquarters in Abuja on Friday.
Anyanwu’s Perspective on INEC’s Role
Speaking to reporters, Anyanwu commended the INEC Chairman. He described him as a wise leader for initiating the meeting. Anyanwu noted that INEC’s approach indicated a desire for the PDP to remain strong. He stated the commission wanted the party to thrive as Nigeria’s main opposition.
He stated that INEC is exploring various options to bring peace within the party. “We are yet to receive a decision from the National Executive Committee (NEC) on the matter,” he added. However, both sides presented their views.
Anyanwu further explained that both factions identified the root causes of the problem. He attributed these issues to “grief, aggression, and the ego of some individuals.” He emphasized the PDP’s commitment as a responsible party. It upholds the rule of law, electoral guidelines, and NEC guidelines.
He affirmed that Nigerians are aware of the PDP’s internal crisis management mechanisms. “We are currently employing these mechanisms,” he said. Anyanwu expressed confidence that the party would emerge “strong and stronger.”
Turaki’s Account of the Meeting
On his part, Turaki, identified as the national Chairman of the PDP from the Oyo convention, also spoke. He stated, “We received an invitation from the Commission last night to attend this morning’s meeting.”
Turaki explained that they initially believed the invitation related to an earlier request. However, upon arrival, they made a discovery. “Some former members of our party, previously expelled, were also invited,” Turaki revealed.
He quoted INEC’s reason for the meeting. The Chairman aimed “to look for possible solutions to lingering problems within the People’s Democratic Party.” Turaki confirmed they presented their perspective. They outlined what they believe to be the core issues.
Turaki added that they discussed these issues thoroughly, and INEC listened. He reported that INEC acknowledged ongoing matters before the Court of Appeal. The commission clarified it could not replace a competent court. Nevertheless, INEC assured them it would “look into what we have said very seriously.”
Analogy on Faction Recognition
Regarding the faction recognized by INEC, Turaki used an analogy. He likened the situation to elders settling a land dispute. In such cases, he noted, elders typically discern the legitimate owner from those merely making claims.
He stressed that despite knowing the true owner, elders ensure everyone is heard. This prevents anyone from claiming they were denied a fair hearing. Turaki suggested this principle guided INEC’s approach.
Turaki viewed INEC’s inclusive approach as proper. He explained it was done “in the spirit of wanting to reconcile.” He argued that if only one side were invited, it would amount to “us talking to ourselves.”
He concluded by stating he saw no issue with inviting all parties. This included even those claiming to be what they are not.
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