The Independent National Electoral Commission has rejected a letter signed by Abdulrahaman Mohammed, who claimed to be the acting chairman of the Samuel Anyanwu faction of the Peoples Democratic Party, saying the correspondence did not meet legal requirements.
Mohammed and Senator Samuel Anyanwu had written to the commission requesting a postponement of the Ekiti Governorship Primaries, citing logistical challenges.
The letter, dated November 06, 2025, and titled “postponement of PDP Ekiti state Congress/Governorship primary”, stated that a new date would be communicated to INEC.
It read, “The above subject matter refers. We wish to inform you that the PDP Ekiti State Congress and Governorship primary scheduled for November 8, 2025, has been postponed due to logistical reasons constraining this exercise.
“Kindly refer to our earlier letter to the commission on this subject matter. Please accept the assurances of my esteemed regards.”
Despite the letter, the party proceeded with the Ekiti Governorship Primary on November 8, 2025. Dr Wole Oluyede won the election with 279 votes, ahead of Funso Agent, who scored 239 votes, and Funmilayo Ogun, who secured 17 votes.
In a letter addressed to the National Secretary of the PDP, referenced INEC/DEPM/PDF/286/94 and dated November 10, 2025, the commission clearly stated that the request had been rejected.
The reply, signed by the Secretary to the Commission, Mrs Rose Oriaran Anthony, was titled “re-resolution of the PDP NWC meeting and postponement of Ekiti state Congress and governorship primary”.
It stated, “Your Letter on the above subject refers. The Commission draws your attention that the notice is not in compliance with the requirement of part 2(12)3 of the Regulations and guidelines for Political Parties, 2022, which provides “the National Chairman and National Secretary of the Party shall jointly sign the notice of convention, congress, conference or meeting and submit the same to the Commission.” Be guided.
“The commission hereby informs you that it has rejected your submission for non-compliance with the requirements of the Electoral Act. Thank you.”
The commission’s response effectively nullifies Abdulrahaman Mohammed’s claim of acting national chairman of the PDP.
