INEC rejects PDP faction’s request to postpone Ekiti governorship primary

INEC rejects PDP faction’s request to postpone Ekiti governorship primary

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected a request submitted by the Samuel Anyanwu faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) seeking to postpone the Ekiti Governorship Primary, declaring the correspondence invalid and non-compliant with electoral regulations.

The faction, through Abdulrahaman Mohammed and Senator Samuel Anyanwu, had written the commission in a letter dated November 6, 2025, citing logistical challenges as grounds for postponement. The letter assured INEC that a new date would be communicated in due course.

Despite the request, the Ekiti PDP Governorship Primary proceeded as scheduled on November 8, 2025, producing Dr. Wole Oluyede as the party’s flag bearer with 279 votes. His closest rival, Funso Agent, scored 239 votes, while Funmilayo Ogun polled 17 votes.

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INEC, in its response dated November 10, 2025, and signed by its Secretary, Mrs. Rose Oriaran Anthony, rejected the faction’s correspondence, stressing that it failed to meet the legal requirements outlined in the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties.

According to INEC, the notice was invalid because it was not jointly signed by the National Chairman and the National Secretary of the PDP, as mandated by Part 2(12)3 of the guidelines.

“The commission hereby informs you that it has rejected your submission for non-compliance with the requirements of the Electoral Act,” the letter stated.

The decision effectively invalidates the claim of Abdulrahaman Mohammed to the position of acting national chairman, as INEC only recognises notices duly signed by the officially acknowledged leadership of the party.

INEC rejects PDP faction’s request to postpone Ekiti governorship primary