A former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has urged the judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain impartial in the handling of the party's internal leadership dispute, warning against actions that could weaken Nigeria's democratic institutions.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the PDP chieftain alleged that attempts were being made to interfere in the affairs of the opposition party ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing such developments as a threat to constitutional democracy.
George maintained that political parties should be allowed to manage their internal affairs in line with their constitutions and the provisions of the law, adding that institutions established to safeguard democracy must not be perceived as taking sides in political disputes.
The elder statesman stressed that INEC's constitutional responsibility is to regulate political parties and conduct credible elections, rather than determine who leads any political party.
He also called on the judiciary to remain independent in resolving matters relating to the PDP's leadership crisis, warning that any perceived compromise could erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
Commenting on the ongoing dispute within the party, George argued that leadership positions should emerge through established democratic processes and long-standing commitment to the party rather than political imposition.
He expressed concern that the prolonged crisis could undermine the opposition's role in Nigeria's democratic system, insisting that a vibrant opposition remains essential to democratic governance.
The PDP stalwart further appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure that government institutions operate without partisan influence, saying the credibility of democratic governance depends on the independence of key national institutions.
George maintained that no administration should influence the leadership or electoral decisions of opposition parties, noting that such responsibilities belong to party members and, ultimately, the electorate.
The PDP has been embroiled in a prolonged leadership crisis following the Supreme Court's decision to nullify the party's national convention held in Ibadan. The ruling has resulted in rival leadership structures, with different factions laying claim to the party's national leadership while legal proceedings over the dispute continue.
He reaffirmed his commitment to defending democratic principles through lawful means and urged all stakeholders to protect the country's constitutional order.
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