Head-Turner: INEC Officially Recognises Wike-Aligned PDP Faction Amid Leadership Showdown

Abuja, Nigeria — February 5, 2026 — In a dramatic political development, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally recognised the Wike-backed Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Caretaker Committee, signalling a major shift in the long-running leadership battle within Nigeria’s main opposition party.

At the first quarterly consultative meeting convened by INEC in Abuja on Thursday, the commission invited Abdulrahman Mohammed — appointed acting National Chairman of the Wike-aligned faction — along with Acting National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu to join political party leaders in discussions reserved for officially recognised parties.

The presence of the Wike faction at the consultative forum effectively confirms INEC’s acceptance of their status, following a Federal High Court ruling in Ibadan that invalidated the rival leadership elected at a party convention last November and directed the electoral umpire to recognise the caretaker committee.

Supporters of the Wike faction say the development validates their claim to lead the PDP and paves the way for a new national convention ahead of the 2027 general election. Critics aligned with the Turaki-led leadership, however, have rejected the court ruling and described the INEC move as premature, with legal challenges expected to continue.

As the opposition party remains deeply divided, political watchers say this recognition could reshape PDP dynamics — but also risks deepening internal strains unless broader reconciliation is achieved.