INEC rejects PDP’s NEC meeting notice over procedural breach

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declined to recognize the notice issued by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for its upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, citing a failure to comply with established procedural guidelines.

In a letter dated June 13, 2025, INEC stated that the notice submitted by the PDP did not meet the requirements outlined in Part 2(12)3 of the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties. According to the electoral body, such notices must be jointly signed by both the national chairman and national secretary of the party.

However, the PDP’s notice reportedly lacked these mandatory signatures, prompting the commission to invalidate the submission.

The letter, addressed to the PDP’s acting National Chairman and signed by INEC’s acting secretary, Haliru Aminu, emphasized the need for strict adherence to electoral procedures and internal party protocols.

The letter, a copy of which was sighted by our correspondent, reads: ” 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, that provides ‘the National Chairman and National Secretary of the Party shall jointly sign the notice of convention, congress, conference or meeting end submit same to the Commission.’ Be guided.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja, describing the project as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening democracy and autonomy.

Speaking at the event, the President emphasised that the new edifice symbolises more than just infrastructure but represents the nation’s dedication to credible elections and institutional independence.

“Today’s ceremony is not merely about bricks and mortar. It is about the strength of our democracy, our institutions’ independence, and the future of our electoral integrity.

“INEC remains the backbone of Nigeria’s democratic journey, and this structure will reflect its dignity, responsibility, and national significance,” he said.
President Tinubu praised the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, for driving the project.

“The FCT Minister has taken another bold step in ensuring the protection of our democracy by initiating this laudable project. I salute his courage as I am proud of him,” he said.
He called on Nigerians to uphold democratic values, saying, “Democracy is not a destination but a journey. Let us strengthen our institutions, safeguard our freedoms, and protect the future together.”

The President further urged contractors and stakeholders to prioritise excellence: “You are not just building a headquarters, you are building trust in our nation.”

The project, expected to be completed within 24 months, will feature modern facilities to support electoral processes, training, and technological advancements.

Earlier, the FCT Minister clarified that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved the project in March 2025, not the FCT Administration. He assured the headquarters would be completed within President Tinubu’s first term.

“I want to make sure you know that this structure will be given all the time it requires to ensure that during your first tenure, this project is completed.

“We will make sure the contractor delivers. I don’t know where he comes from, but by the time he finishes, he’ll be back, because I’ve made sure that he stays under the sun, under the rain, and justifies the money we are paying,” he said.