The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has updated its official website to recognise Abdulrahman Mohammed as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), deepening the leadership dispute within the opposition party.
Mohammed, who is aligned with the faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is now reflected on INEC’s platform alongside other members of the party’s National Working Committee. Those listed include National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu; National Treasurer, Ahmed Yayari Mohammed; National Financial Secretary, Daniel Woyengikuro; and National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade (SAN).
The development comes despite a rival claim to the chairmanship by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN), whose faction continues to assert its leadership of the party.
Last week, Turaki disclosed that efforts were underway to resolve the lingering crisis, noting that leaders from both factions had begun exploring pathways toward reconciliation. He urged party supporters to de-escalate tensions and avoid actions that could undermine ongoing peace initiatives.
According to him, the reconciliation move follows guidance from the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan, which had advised parties involved in the dispute to seek amicable resolution in order to preserve the party’s stability.
Turaki further revealed that the PDP Board of Trustees, led by Senator Adolphus Wabara, had constituted a high-powered committee to engage aggrieved members and address contentious issues, with the aim of repositioning the party ahead of upcoming elections.
As part of efforts to ease tensions, he said the party’s National Working Committee had postponed previously scheduled National Executive Committee and National Caucus meetings, while also toning down confrontational public communications.
Despite these measures, Turaki expressed concern over what he described as continued hostile rhetoric from the opposing faction but maintained that dialogue remained ongoing.
He assured party members and aspirants that the PDP would field candidates for all elective positions in line with its constitution, expressing confidence that the crisis would be resolved in time.
Turaki also appreciated supporters across the country for their continued faith in the party, stressing that the PDP remained committed to strengthening democracy and providing a viable opposition platform.
Reaffirming the party’s position, he declared that the PDP remains active and prepared to participate in forthcoming elections, pledging to offer Nigerians a credible alternative in the political landscape.
