Tension gripped the headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja on Monday as rival factions attempted to hold parallel meetings, raising fears of a full-blown clash.
The National Working Committee (NWC) elected in Ibadan, Oyo State, and the faction loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had both scheduled meetings for the day. Samuel Anyanwu, National Secretary of the pro-Wike faction, arrived at Wadata Plaza with several members ahead of the scheduled proceedings.
Shortly after, members of the Taminu Turaki faction appeared at the party headquarters but were blocked from entering. Two governors, however, reportedly forced their way inside. As more faction members tried to gain entry, security personnel fired gunshots and deployed teargas, sending party members and bystanders fleeing in panic.
Earlier, speaking to journalists in his office, Anyanwu described the heightened security at the party headquarters as a “routine measure to maintain law and order.” He also said his faction was ready for both the Board of Trustees (BoT) and National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings.
The unfolding standoff underscores the deep divisions within the PDP as the party grapples with internal leadership disputes.
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