The leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) continues to escalate as factions led by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde maintain their stances despite intervention from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

INEC had summoned representatives from the rival factions to its Abuja headquarters on Friday, seeking clarity after receiving conflicting communications from the party.

The move was also aimed at ensuring the PDP is ready for upcoming elections, including the Federal Capital Territory Area Council polls in February 2026 and the governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states later in the year.

However, the meeting failed to resolve the standoff.

The Makinde-led faction emphasized it would continue operating as a legitimate party body while awaiting the Court of Appeal’s decision on ongoing legal challenges.

PDP National Publicity Secretary Ini Ememobong said the Supreme Court has already cautioned INEC against interfering in internal party matters, describing the engagement as a routine interaction rather than a resolution.

On the other side, Wike’s camp insisted nothing can move forward while court cases remain active.

Acting National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor said reconciliation would only be possible if the factions withdrew their cases and acknowledged that the November convention in Ibadan had no legal standing.

He also noted that several party leaders who attended the convention have since defected to other parties, urging those who still consider themselves PDP members to return to the party fold.