The National Working Committee of the [Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)](https://pdp.org.ng) announced on Sunday that the [Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)](https://inecnigeria.org) removed its governorship candidates for the 2027 elections in both [Ogun State](https://ogunstate.gov.ng) and [Gombe State](https://gombe.gov.ng) from the official list released on Saturday, prompting the party to seek an immediate clarification.
Key facts:
- The PDP’s Ogun candidate, Mr. Ladi Adebutu, and his running mate, Mr. Yemi Sowunmi‑Gbadebo, were absent from the INEC list.
- In Gombe, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, the party’s governorship aspirant, was also omitted.
- Thirteen other parties retained their candidates on the same list.
- INEC has not offered a formal explanation; sources suggest Pantami’s case may involve pending litigation, while the reason for Adebutu’s exclusion remains unclear.
- The PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Honourable Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, said the party is already engaging INEC to address the issue.
**What did the PDP say?**
"The Peoples Democratic Party has noted with concern the omission of some of its candidates from the final list released by INEC yesterday," Mohammed said in Abuja. He added that the party is working with the commission to secure a lawful and amicable resolution.
**How is the party responding?**
Mohammed urged affected candidates, members and supporters to stay calm and patient while the matter is being sorted. He emphasized that the PDP will continue to communicate any developments and will ensure that legitimate concerns are addressed with the commission.
**What is the internal context?**
The PDP remains divided by a leadership dispute. The Abdulrahman Mohammed‑led National Working Committee, recognised by INEC, filed the candidates for the 2027 polls and enjoys the backing of Federal Capital Territory Minister Mr. Nyesom Wike. Meanwhile, the rival Interim National Working Committee, headed by Dr. Tanimu Turaki, is still pursuing court recognition from INEC.
The party has pledged to keep the process transparent and to avoid any actions that could undermine ongoing negotiations with the electoral body.