The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has firmly confirmed Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the legitimate National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), dismissing any efforts to replace him without following the proper procedures.
This announcement comes amid an escalating leadership dispute within the PDP regarding the National Secretary position.
The confirmation was made public as the Chairman of the Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, appointed a committee, including Governors Agbu Kefas, Peter Mbah, and Dauda Lawal, to engage with INEC in resolving the crisis affecting the party.
INEC’s decision is anchored on the Supreme Court ruling earlier this year that upheld Anyanwu’s position.
In its statement, the Commission explained that it “continues to recognise Senator Anyanwu as the National Secretary of the Party in accordance with the Supreme Court judgment.”
The statement clarified further that “there is no vacancy to fill until Anyanwu is removed in line with the Party’s Constitution.”
INEC also stressed the necessity of adhering to procedural requirements, noting that “a notice of 21 days must be given to the commission for any meeting convened to remove or replace an official of the Party.”
Moreover, the Commission underlined that “the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting must comply with the provisions of the Party’s Constitution and the requirements of the Electoral Act when considering the removal or appointment of any official.”
Senator Anyanwu, who was elected National Secretary at the party’s last convention, has maintained his mandate despite internal opposition.
Party insiders regard INEC’s reaffirmation as a decisive endorsement of his position, expected to discourage any unilateral leadership changes that bypass constitutional and legal protocols.
The committee appointed by the Governors’ Forum has reportedly submitted its findings, further reinforcing the importance of lawful procedures in party governance.