The South-West Zonal Executive Committee of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), on Monday, called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that legal and electoral processes are insulated from partisan interference, urging him to “exonerate” the National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission [INEC], Prof. Joash Amupitan from politics in the interest of fairness and credibility.

The party’s Zonal Publicity Secretary, Chief Sanya Atofarati, who made the call during a press conference in Ibadan, alleged that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was taking steps to frustrate the PDP and prevent it from fielding candidates in forthcoming elections.

“I can tell you that the APC is doing everything possible to ensure that the PDP does not field candidates,” he said, expressing concern over what he described as a pattern of political interference.

Atofarati specifically challenged the President to ensure neutrality in the system, noting that individuals occupying sensitive positions must be seen to operate above partisan interests.

“I am putting this challenge to Tinubu. He should exonerate Amupitan from partisan politics. Amupitan should assure Nigerians of his neutrality,” he said.

The PDP Zonal spokesman also raised concerns about the role of the INEC, calling on its leadership to guarantee fairness in the electoral process.

“I want to use this opportunity to raise concerns about INEC and its leadership. The Chairman must assure Nigerians of his neutrality in the discharge of his duties,” he added.

Citing recent experiences, Atofarati pointed to the situation in Ekiti State, where he said the party’s candidate was initially disqualified without justification, forcing the PDP to seek legal redress.

“For no justifiable reason, our candidate was disqualified. We had to go to court, and eventually, we secured judgment in our favour,” he said.

He disclosed that a similar situation was unfolding in Osun State, expressing optimism that the courts would again rule in the party’s favour.

“I can assure you that before the end of this week, there will be a positive outcome from the court,” he stated.

Despite the challenges, the PDP maintained that it remained prepared for the elections, insisting that it would not be deterred by what it described as attempts to undermine its participation.
“We are fully prepared for the elections. We are confident, ready, and determined to participate, and I can assure you we will remain steadfast in our pursuit of victory,” Atofarati said.

The party also cautioned former Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, against what it described as divisive and inflammatory remarks, while reaffirming its support for Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde.