By Janet Samuel
In a rare high-level engagement, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Tuesday hosted leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to discuss lingering uncertainties surrounding the party’s National Secretary position, a matter that has recently drawn legal and political attention.
The meeting, held at INEC’s national headquarters in Abuja, was initiated by the PDP and led by its Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum.
According to INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the discussion was necessary following a series of conflicting correspondences from the PDP over who holds the office of the National Secretary.
“In recent months, we have received letters from the party citing different individuals as Secretary; Mr. Udeh Okoye, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, Mr. Koshoedo and at times, letters without any Secretary’s signature at all,” Prof. Yakubu revealed.
“This inconsistency raises procedural challenges, especially regarding the validation of party decisions such as those made during NEC meetings.”
Despite the concerns, the INEC Chairman commended the PDP’s track record of compliance, noting that the party’s upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting would be its 100th, a milestone reached through years of following due process.
Ambassador Damagum, in his remarks, appreciated the Commission for opening its doors to what he called a critical off-camera dialogue.
“This is perhaps the first time our leaders across various arms are meeting directly with INEC in this manner,” he said.
“The issue of the Secretary has gone through legal scrutiny, including a Supreme Court judgment where INEC was joined. We are here to clear the air and ensure alignment with the Commission’s expectations moving forward.”
He also explained that the PDP NEC had mandated him to sign the most recent communication to INEC to forestall further controversy and ensure continuity in party operations.
While the details of the closed-door session were not made public, both parties affirmed their commitment to strengthening democratic processes and maintaining transparent political structures.
