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INEC Officially Recognises Wike-Backed PDP Leadership, Updates Party Registry

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 30th, 2026.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has formally recognised the Nyesom Wike-backed faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), marking a significant development in the ongoing leadership tussle within Nigeria’s main opposition party.

On Monday, INEC updated its official party registry on its website to reflect the new leadership structure, signalling the commission’s recognition of the faction led by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. According to the update, Abdulrahman Mohammed now holds the position of National Chairman, while Senator Samuel Anyanwu serves as National Secretary.

Other key appointments listed include Hon. Ahmed Yayari Mohammed as National Treasurer, Daniel Woyengikuro as National Financial Secretary, and Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade, SAN, as National Legal Adviser. The full details were published on INEC’s official portal, as confirmed by The Punch and corroborated by party sources on social media.

The recognition comes amid nearly three years of internal dispute between the Wike-aligned faction and the group backed by PDP governors, led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN). The governors’ faction has previously approached the Supreme Court to contest the legitimacy of Wike’s convention, describing it as “illegitimate” in statements cited by Vanguard.

Political analysts suggest that INEC’s endorsement could consolidate the Wike faction’s position ahead of future electoral contests, providing clarity for party operations and candidate endorsements. A source close to INEC told Daily Trust that the commission’s decision followed due verification of documentation submitted by the faction.

While the governors’ bloc has maintained that they will continue to pursue legal remedies to resolve the party crisis, the formal recognition of the Wike-led NWC by INEC effectively positions it as the official leadership for administrative and electoral purposes.

This development is expected to have a direct impact on upcoming primary elections, candidate nominations, and the overall cohesion of the PDP as the 2027 general elections draw nearer.