INEC Names Saliu Mustapha as PDP Candidate for Kwara Central

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognized Senator Saliu Mustapha as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senatorial candidate for Kwara Central. This recognition follows Mustapha's defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his subsequent substitution as the party's flag-bearer for the district.

Mustapha secured the PDP ticket through this substitution after aligning himself with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike's Rainbow Coalition, which is attracting members from various political parties in preparation for the 2027 general elections. His political maneuvering is significant, particularly as he reportedly played a role in influencing certain APC governors, including Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, against Wike.

INEC's acknowledgment of Mustapha's candidacy aligns with a recent Supreme Court ruling in INEC v. Zenith Labour Party, which upheld the requirement for political parties to submit their membership registers to INEC at least 21 days before any internal elections, thereby establishing clear eligibility criteria for participation in party processes.