Confusion has emerged within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following the release of two contradictory letters regarding the conduct of its state congresses in Cross River, Plateau and Kebbi States.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday received both communications, each bearing the PDP letterhead and dated a day apart.
The first letter, dated Thursday, September 25, 2025 and signed by the party’s Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Iliya Damagum, announced the postponement of congresses earlier scheduled for Saturday, September 27. Citing “unforeseen circumstances and operational logistic challenges,” it said a new date would be communicated to INEC later. The document carried the party’s official stamp and was acknowledged by INEC on September 26.
However, a second letter surfaced dated Friday, September 26, 2025, signed by the PDP National Secretary, Sen. Samuel N. Anyanwu. In sharp contrast, it declared that the congresses in the three affected states would proceed as scheduled, directing INEC to disregard the earlier postponement notice purportedly signed by the National Chairman. “The earlier letter signed by the National Chairman should be ignored,” the communication stated.
Both letters referenced the same subject and reference number (PDP/DOM/GF.2/VOL.1/25-164), deepening the uncertainty over which directive stands as the official party position.
The PDP had earlier informed INEC in July of plans to hold congresses in 12 states to elect new party executives. The sudden split signals internal disagreements at the top hierarchy, with the National Chairman and National Secretary apparently issuing conflicting instructions.
As of press time, INEC has yet to issue a formal response to the contradictory communications.
Political observers warn that the development could trigger legal challenges and further strain party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly in the three states where preparations for the congresses are now mired in confusion.
