INEC Recognises Wike-Backed PDP Leadership in Nigeria

Abuja, Nigeria – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognised a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Working Committee aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

The development became known on Monday after the commission updated the PDP’s leadership structure on its official website. The listing shows Abdulrahman Mohammed as National Chairman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary, alongside other members of the party’s national executive.

Both officials emerged from the PDP National Convention held on Sunday night at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. The convention followed the dissolution of the party’s National Caretaker Committee, after which new National Working Committee members were selected by consensus.

INEC’s recognition is considered significant as it determines the leadership the electoral body will officially interact with on party matters, including candidate nominations, internal communications, and compliance with electoral regulations.

The National Working Committee serves as the PDP’s highest administrative body, overseeing daily operations, organising conventions, and coordinating activities across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Other officials listed by INEC include Aaron Chukwuemeka as Deputy National Chairman (South), Yusufu Akirikwen as Deputy National Chairman (North), Kolawale Olabisi as Deputy National Secretary, Odeyemi Oladiran as National Treasurer, and Lado Marke as Deputy National Treasurer.

Additional members are Eyim Henry (National Financial Secretary), Grema Kyari (Deputy National Financial Secretary), Umar Bature (National Organising Secretary), Efere Augustine (Deputy National Organising Secretary), Jungudo Mohammed (National Publicity Secretary), Egwu Chidiebere (Deputy National Publicity Secretary), Kamaldeen Ajibade (National Legal Adviser), and Aloysius Uba (Deputy National Legal Adviser).

The list also includes Osuoha Donatus as National Auditor, Adaba Seri Yatu as Deputy National Auditor, Ogunshe Adedayo as National Women Leader, Hauwa Shinge as Deputy Women Leader, Ibrahim Aboki as National Youth Leader, and Momoh Bashir as Deputy Youth Leader.

The move is expected to influence internal dynamics within the PDP, as different factions continue to vie for control of the opposition party ahead of future political engagements. Analysts suggest the decision could affect ongoing disputes over authority, particularly regarding official party decisions, communications, and nomination processes.

Reactions from other factions are anticipated, with possible political or legal steps likely as the party moves toward resolving its leadership structure.