A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Segun Sowunmi, has faulted supporters of Peter Obi—widely known as Obidients—accusing them of misrepresenting public narratives and showing little regard for prominent individuals.

Sowunmi made the remarks during an appearance on The Volume Pod, where he discussed the influence of political support groups in shaping public perception of key figures.

Referring to the late Doyin Okupe, he questioned the reactions that followed his death, suggesting that some responses reflected a lack of empathy and respect.

He argued that the manner in which certain narratives are pushed online can distort reality and negatively impact public discourse, particularly in a politically charged environment.

The PDP chieftain’s comments come amid ongoing conversations about the role and conduct of digital political movements, as well as their growing influence on national discussions.

Pressure is mounting on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, as demands intensify for him to step aside over concerns surrounding the credibility of the electoral system.

Among those adding their voice is activist Aisha Yesufu, who on Saturday endorsed calls for Amupitan’s removal, citing what she described as perceived bias in the commission’s operations.

In a statement shared عبر her social media platform, Yesufu noted that the growing demand reflects a broader rise in civic awareness, with more Nigerians actively holding democratic institutions accountable.

She stressed that electoral bodies must not only function independently but must also be widely perceived as impartial, particularly as political activities ahead of future elections begin to gain traction.

Yesufu, who is affiliated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), further pointed to recent developments involving INEC as issues that warrant urgent clarification, warning that failure to address them openly could weaken public confidence.

As of the time of reporting, INEC has not issued an official response to the increasing calls for the chairman’s resignation. However, observers say the situation underscores a rising demand for transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s electoral framework.

The activist also highlighted the importance of sustained citizen engagement, noting that consistent public participation can shape democratic outcomes over time.

The development comes as political parties and key stakeholders intensify preparations for upcoming elections, with analysts emphasising that trust in the electoral body will be crucial to the credibility and acceptance of the process.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Oba Maduabuchi, has warned that the ongoing legal disputes within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could stall the party’s progress unless the Supreme Court of Nigeria urgently intervenes.

Speaking in an interview, Maduabuchi said the party’s internal crisis has become deeply complicated due to conflicting leadership claims and court rulings, making it difficult for the PDP to function effectively.

He traced the crisis to the removal of former national chairman Iyorchia Ayu and the subsequent leadership of Umar Damagum, whose tenure ended in December 2025. According to him, the emergence of Mohammed Abdurahman as a new leader further complicated the situation.

Maduabuchi highlighted contradictions in court decisions, noting that while the Court of Appeal upheld the expulsion of some party members, it also appeared to recognise individuals linked to the same group in leadership positions.

He argued that such inconsistencies have created confusion over the party’s legitimate leadership structure, making it difficult to determine which faction holds authority.

The senior lawyer also questioned the legitimacy of recent conventions, citing earlier court orders that restrained the party from holding such gatherings. He maintained that proceeding with those conventions despite pending legal matters has further muddied the situation.

According to him, only a clear and expedited ruling from the Supreme Court can resolve the disputes and restore order within the party.

“Without the Supreme Court, I don’t see how PDP can progress,” he said, stressing the urgency of a definitive judgment.

He added that the uncertainty is already affecting electoral matters, with disputes arising over which faction of the PDP fielded candidates in certain elections.

Maduabuchi further emphasised the importance of a strong opposition in Nigeria, describing the PDP as a central force in the country’s democratic structure.

On the proposed Electoral Act 2026, he criticised provisions mandating direct primaries or consensus arrangements, arguing that such decisions should be left to political parties based on their constitutions.

He maintained that imposing candidate selection methods undermines internal party autonomy and runs contrary to established legal principles.