Fresh Crisis Rocks PDP, Police Officers Storm Headquarters
Tension gripped the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday as police officers were deployed amidst a leadership tussle between two factional National Secretaries, Samuel Anyanwu and Ude Okoye.
The development followed the Court of Appeal’s recent declaration of Okoye as the authentic National Secretary, a decision contested by Anyanwu, who has taken the matter to the Supreme Court.
However, both men had signalled their intent to resume work at the party’s Wadata Plaza headquarters, sparking concerns of a possible confrontation.
Meanwhile, by early morning, police officers and supporters of both factions were seen outside the PDP secretariat.
Despite the palpable tension, Anyanwu arrived at the premises, accompanied by his supporters, and proceeded directly to his office amidst cheers.
In a brief address to journalists, Anyanwu downplayed the party’s acknowledgment of Okoye as National Secretary, describing it as the personal opinion of the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary.
He reiterated his confidence in the Supreme Court appeal, urging his supporters to remain calm.
However, the conflict stems from Anyanwu’s decision to vacate his role to contest the Imo State governorship election, which he lost to the incumbent. Okoye, who assumed the secretarial duties during Anyanwu’s absence, argued that the office could not be reclaimed.
Last week, the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) affirmed its respect for the Court of Appeal ruling in favour of Okoye, further deepening the divide.
However, as of press time, the situation at the PDP headquarters remained peaceful but tense, with supporters of both factions closely monitoring developments.
