We’re engaging INEC over exclusion of Pantami, Adebutu from 2027 candidates’ list — PDP

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says it is engaging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to resolve the exclusion of some of its candidates from the final lists for the 2027 elections.

The party’s position was conveyed in a statement issued on Sunday by Jungudo Mohammed, spokesperson for the PDP faction backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

INEC’s final governorship candidates’ list, published on Saturday, excluded some PDP candidates, including Isa Pantami of Gombe State and Ladi Adebutu of Ogun State.

Reacting to the development, Mohammed said the party was working with the electoral commission to address the omissions in accordance with the law and established electoral guidelines.

“The PDP therefore assures all concerned that it is treating this development with the utmost seriousness it deserves and will communicate further developments as appropriate,” he said.

He added that the party remained committed to ensuring that the concerns raised by affected candidates were resolved.

“The Party is committed to ensuring that all legitimate concerns are properly addressed with the Commission,” the statement said.

Mohammed urged the affected candidates, party members and supporters to remain calm while discussions with INEC continued.

He also cautioned against actions or public statements that could undermine the ongoing engagements with the commission.