PDP Leadership Crisis Deepens as Factional Secretaries Clash at Abuja Headquarters

PDP Leadership Crisis Deepens as Factional Secretaries Clash at Abuja Headquarters

The internal strife within Nigeria's Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has escalated into a full-blown crisis, as two factional secretaries—Sunday Ude-Okoye and Samuel Anyanwu—prepare for a high-stakes confrontation at the party's National Headquarters, Wadata Plaza, in Abuja. This power struggle threatens to further destabilize the party, which has been grappling with internal discord since its electoral setbacks in 2023.



Background of the Dispute

The genesis of this leadership tussle dates back to 2023, when the South-East PDP leadership nominated Sunday Ude-Okoye, a former National Youth Leader, to replace Samuel Anyanwu.Anyanwu had vacated his position as National Secretary to contest as the party's gubernatorial candidate in Imo State.This succession plan, however, did not proceed smoothly, leading to a series of legal battles and internal conflicts.

Legal Battles and Court Rulings

The dispute over the rightful National Secretary led to protracted legal proceedings.On December 20, 2024, the Court of Appeal upheld a lower court's decision, affirming Ude-Okoye's nomination as the legitimate successor to Anyanwu.Armed with this judgment, Ude-Okoye attempted to assume office on December 31, 2024.In a counter-move, Anyanwu ordered the closure of the PDP secretariat until January 13, 2025, further intensifying the rift within the party.

Factions Within the Party

The PDP's National Working Committee (NWC) has become deeply divided over this issue.Reports indicate that 12 NWC members support Ude-Okoye's claim to the National Secretary position, while another faction remains loyal to Anyanwu.This schism has exacerbated existing fractures within the party, hindering efforts to present a unified front ahead of future elections.

Statements from Party Leaders

Adolphus Wabara, Chairman of the PDP's Board of Trustees, emphasized the importance of adhering to the Court of Appeal's judgment.He stated, "We are a party of law. Until there is another Supreme Court ruling, the Appeal Court judgment must be obeyed.Wabara's call for compliance underscores the party's commitment to legal processes, even amidst internal turmoil.







Positions of the Factional Secretaries

  • Sunday Ude-Okoye: Affirming his legitimacy, Ude-Okoye stated, "The judgment is clear, and I will resume my duties to strengthen the party. I will not engage in unnecessary disputes; my focus is on restoring unity."His stance reflects a determination to move forward and address the party's challenges.

  • Samuel Anyanwu: Claiming to have filed a stay of execution, Anyanwu insisted that the status quo remains. He remarked, "This is about the party's unity. I am committed to ensuring cohesion while pursuing my case at the Supreme Court. Anyanwu's position highlights his intent to continue his legal battle while emphasizing the need for party unity.


The ongoing power struggle has raised concerns among party members and political analysts.There is a palpable fear that the crisis could further weaken the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.Timothy Osadolor, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, warned of the consequences of continued infighting, stating, "This party represents the hope of Nigerians. If we cannot come together, we risk failing the people we aim to serve.

Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary Diran Odeyemi called for calm, cautioning that "this sensitive issue, if mishandled, could escalate and cause irreparable damage to the PDP.His remarks underscore the delicate nature of the situation and the need for careful navigation.

Official Party Position

PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba affirmed the party's adherence to the Court of Appeal's judgment, recognizing Ude-Okoye as the National Secretary.He stated, "The PDP is a law-abiding party. We will comply with the judgment while remaining open to any new legal directives.This official stance reflects the party's commitment to legal compliance amidst internal disputes.

As the PDP navigates this internal crisis, the actions of its leaders in the coming days will be crucial.The party's ability to resolve this dispute amicably and uphold democratic principles will significantly impact its credibility and effectiveness as Nigeria's leading opposition party.Observers believe that the party’s ability to navigate this crisis will shape its fortunes in the 2027 elections and its broader role in Nigeria’s political landscape.

The unfolding events serve as a litmus test for the PDP's resilience and commitment to unity in the face of adversity.The political landscape awaits the party's next moves with bated breath.

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