Paragraph 1: A power struggle within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) escalated dramatically as opposing factions clashed over key decisions regarding the party’s future. The central issues were the date of the 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting and the reinstatement of Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary. Two prominent figures, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, emerged as leaders of the opposing camps, each with a coalition of governors, National Working Committee (NWC) members, and party chieftains supporting their respective positions.
Paragraph 2: Makinde’s faction insisted on adhering to the original schedule, holding the NEC meeting on June 30th, and opposing Anyanwu’s return. This group included Governors Peter Mbah (Enugu), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), and Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), along with eleven NWC members. Conversely, Wike’s allies, including Governors Caleb Muftwang (Plateau), Kefas Agbu (Taraba), Adamu Fintiri (Adamawa), and Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), alongside acting National Chairman Umar Damagum and other key officials, advocated for Anyanwu’s reinstatement and a postponement of the NEC meeting. This internal conflict underscored the deep divisions within the PDP.
Paragraph 3: The dispute unfolded against a backdrop of ongoing internal challenges that have plagued the PDP since its loss of power in 2015. These include leadership struggles, a wave of defections, and unresolved issues from party congresses. The position of National Secretary became a focal point of contention. Setonji Koshoedo had been appointed acting National Secretary to address the instability. However, a fact-finding committee led by Governor Agbu of Taraba State revealed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) still recognized Anyanwu as the legitimate National Secretary, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
Paragraph 4: Further complicating matters, INEC rejected a letter from Damagum notifying them of the scheduled June 30th NEC meeting. INEC cited PDP’s internal rules, requiring joint signatures from both the National Chairman and National Secretary for such correspondence. This rejection triggered a public disagreement within the PDP. National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba asserted INEC’s role was limited to acknowledging party activities, not controlling internal matters. However, Damagum publicly contradicted Ologunagba, stating his remarks were personal and unauthorized. Subsequently, Damagum announced an expanded National Caucus meeting would replace the NEC meeting on June 30th, and affirmed Anyanwu’s reinstatement as National Secretary.
Paragraph 5: The conflicting pronouncements and actions within the PDP highlighted the struggle for control and the varying interpretations of party rules. Damagum defended his decisions as difficult but necessary, citing INEC’s stance on Anyanwu’s status and the importance of adhering to regulations, particularly in light of upcoming elections. He presented the reinstatement as a “bitter pill” necessary for the party’s survival. Meanwhile, other party officials, including the National Organising Secretary, justified Anyanwu’s return as compliance with a Supreme Court judgment. A group of deputy national officers welcomed Anyanwu’s reinstatement, characterizing it as a victory for the party and the rule of law, while urging internal resolution through dialogue.
Paragraph 6: The opposing factions reacted strongly to Damagum’s announcements. Wike criticized Damagum’s authority to reinstate Anyanwu, accusing him of perpetrating illegalities and displaying weak leadership. He also condemned the party’s consultation with INEC as ignorant and shameful. In direct defiance, eleven NWC members countered Damagum, insisting the June 30th NEC meeting would proceed as planned and rejecting Anyanwu’s reinstatement. They emphasized that NEC resolutions are supreme within the party structure and cannot be overridden. Amidst the escalating conflict, party chieftain Bode George urged calm and emphasized the importance of internal resolution. He stressed the collective nature of the PDP, contrasting it with the perceived individual control within the ruling APC. Meanwhile, a Wike ally, Dr. Chidi Lloyd, commended Anyanwu’s reinstatement and urged party unity ahead of the 2027 elections. The unfolding events underscored the deep divisions threatening the PDP’s cohesion and future prospects.
