The Kabiru Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has confirmed a recent meeting. This engagement was with Professor Joash Amupitan, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The discussion centered on the ongoing leadership crisis within the party.

Ini Ememobong, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, issued a statement on Friday. He indicated the meeting aimed to resolve the party’s internal leadership dispute.

Ememobong further reported that the INEC Chairman acknowledged the commission’s awareness. This pertained to pending court cases concerning the PDP’s leadership situation.

During the meeting, both factions presented their respective arguments. Ultimately, the INEC Chairman decided to await a court ruling on the matter.

Despite this, the spokesperson for the Turaki faction insisted. They maintained that their leadership remains the legitimate one for the PDP.

Ememobong provided further details about the invitation. He stated that Professor Joash Amupitan, the INEC Chairman, invited the Kabiru Turaki-led National Working Committee. The invitation also extended to “some former members of our party claiming different leadership positions.”

Amupitan’s stated purpose was to “find a way to resolve the lingering crisis in the party.” Both sides thoroughly presented their facts. They confirmed that the issues are currently before the Court of Appeal. The INEC Chairman concluded the meeting. He reiterated that its purpose was to hear from both parties. He affirmed the commission’s awareness of the Court of Appeal cases. INEC, he added, would await the court’s final judgment.

National Chairman Kabiru Turaki SAN then issued a statement. He affirmed his faction as the party’s “authentic leadership.” This leadership emerged from a “valid convention,” despite ongoing court challenges. Turaki stated that while awaiting judicial pronouncements, they would “continue to undertake the duties of an opposition party.” This includes holding the government accountable. Key areas of focus are security, infrastructure, education, and healthcare.