Pandemonium erupted at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday when thugs allegedly invaded the Board of Trustees (BoT) meeting, causing chaos and disrupting proceedings.
The meeting, presided over by the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Amb. Umar Damagum, was attended by key party members, including National Secretary Sen. Samuel Anyanwu, Senator Ben Obi, BoT Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, Board Secretary Senator Ahmed Makarfi, former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu, Chief Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and former Youth Leader Sunday Ude-Okoye.
Tensions escalated when Anyanwu and Ude-Okoye, both contesting the position of PDP National Secretary, clashed at the meeting. Ude-Okoye arrived at the venue ahead of Anyanwu and Acting Chairman Damagum but was forced out upon Anyanwu’s arrival, sparking further controversy.
The conflict stems from a leadership dispute dating back to 2023, when the PDP’s South East zone nominated Ude-Okoye to replace Anyanwu as National Secretary following his selection as the party’s governorship candidate for Imo State. The South East PDP argued that Anyanwu should relinquish the post due to his candidacy.
A High Court ruling and an Appeal Court sitting in Enugu on December 20, 2024, upheld the removal of Anyanwu as National Secretary and affirmed Ude-Okoye as the legitimate officeholder. However, last week, the Court of Appeal in Abuja issued a restraining order allowing Anyanwu to remain in office until the Supreme Court delivers a final ruling on the matter.
The leadership tussle has further deepened divisions within the party, with Wednesday’s chaotic meeting highlighting the growing tension as both factions continue to struggle for control.
 headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday when thugs allegedly invaded){kind=link}