PDP Crisis: Anyanwu Enters Secretarait, Holds Prayers As Rival Deploys Supporters

Tension gripped the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday as police officers were deployed amid a looming clash between two contenders for the position of National Secretary — Samuel Anyanwu and Sunday Ude-Okoye.

The Court of Appeal recently affirmed Ude-Okoye as the legitimate National Secretary, a ruling that Anyanwu has appealed to the Supreme Court. Both men arrived at the PDP secretariat, each claiming authority over the office, setting the stage for a dramatic standoff.

Supporters of both figures gathered at the premises, chanting slogans and creating a charged atmosphere. Anyanwu, who drove in with a convoy of loyalists, went straight to the National Secretary’s office. Inside, he led a prayer session before addressing journalists.

Responding to questions about the court ruling, Anyanwu maintained that his appeal to the Supreme Court puts the matter on hold, emphasizing that the party must await the final verdict. He dismissed last week’s press briefing by PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, which recognized Ude-Okoye, as a personal opinion, not an official position.

The leadership crisis stems from Anyanwu’s decision to contest the Imo State governorship election while still holding his party position. His absence led to some stakeholders appointing Ude-Okoye, a move later ratified by the Court of Appeal. However, Anyanwu has filed a stay of execution and appealed the ruling.

With both men refusing to back down, the situation has deepened the internal strife within Nigeria’s main opposition party. Party insiders fear the conflict could further destabilize the PDP, which has been grappling with leadership challenges since the 2023 elections.

GWG.ng reports that some legal experts in supporting Anyanwu cited section 47(5) of the PDP Constitution which gave him the leeway to contest without resigning and the fact that his appeal is yet to be determined by the Supreme Court.

(With additional information from Channels TV
Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us

 And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG