PDP asks INEC to withdraw Anyanwu’s recognition as national

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of a subsisting court judgment affirming the expulsion of Senator Samuel Anyanwu.

The party demanded that the electoral body immediately withdraw his recognition as the party’s National Secretary.

In a letter addressed to the INEC Chairman, the party, through its solicitors, Chief Chris Uche (SAN) & Co., insisted that Anyanwu has ceased to be a member and officer of the PDP, following a judgment delivered by the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory on January 12, 2026.

According to the letter, the party’s National Disciplinary Committee had, on March 10, 2025, recommended Anyanwu’s expulsion over alleged anti-party activities, a decision subsequently ratified and implemented by the party leadership.

Anyanwu challenged the decision in Suit No. CV/1050/2025 against PDP Acting National Chairman, Amb. Iliya Umar Damagum, and others. However, the court dismissed his case, thereby upholding his expulsion.

The PDP maintained that although Anyanwu has filed a notice of appeal against the ruling, the action does not constitute a stay of execution, meaning the judgment remains valid and binding.

Citing Section 287(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the party argued that INEC is under a constitutional obligation to enforce and give effect to the judgment.

The party accused the commission of undermining the judiciary by continuing to recognise Anyanwu despite the court’s decision. It described the recognition as an affront to the sanctity of the judiciary.

It also demanded that INEC expunge all recognitions accorded to Anyanwu since January 12, 2026, including official correspondence, and cease further dealings with him in any capacity as PDP National Secretary.

The PDP also called on the commission to immediately delist Anyanwu’s name from its official portal.

The party warned that failure by INEC to comply would leave it with no option than to initiate legal action, including contempt proceedings against the commission’s chairman.

It expressed hope that the electoral body would act promptly to avoid what it called growing public perception of enabling instability within opposition parties.