Security operatives, including soldiers, police officers, and personnel of the National Security and Civil Defense Corps, have taken over the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following a clash between Samuel Anyanwu and Sunday Ude-Okoye over the position of National Secretary.
Â
The conflict escalated during a scheduled Board of Trustees (BoT) meeting when both Anyanwu and Ude-Okoye arrived at the venue. Reports indicate that an aide to Anyanwu forcibly removed Ude-Okoye from the meeting shortly after a closed-door session began. This led to an altercation between supporters of the two camps, prompting the intervention of security operatives to restore order.
Â
The position of PDP National Secretary has been a source of contention since Anyanwu vacated the role to contest the Imo State governorship election, a bid he ultimately lost. In his absence, the South East Caucus of the party endorsed Ude-Okoye as his replacement. Efforts by Anyanwu to reclaim the seat after his gubernatorial defeat have deepened divisions within the party.
Â
On December 20, 2024, an Appeal Court sitting in Enugu upheld a prior High Court ruling that removed Anyanwu from the position and affirmed Ude-Okoye as the legitimate National Secretary. However, Anyanwu has filed for a Stay of Execution and an appeal, with Dr Musa (SAN) nominated as the party’s legal counsel by Acting National Chairman Iliya Damagum, further intensifying the impasse.
Â
The ongoing leadership tussle continues to fuel internal crises within the PDP, with stakeholders calling for a resolution to stabilize the party ahead of future elections.