Fight Breaks Out at PDP Headquarters Over Leadership Crisis

A fight broke out at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, during a meeting of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT). The altercation started when Sunday Ude-Okoye, a party chieftain, was denied access to the meeting.

Background of the Crisis

The root of the conflict lies in the party’s leadership crisis, with both Ude-Okoye and Samuel Anyanwu claiming the position of national secretary. In December 2024, the Court of Appeal ruled in favor of Ude-Okoye, but Anyanwu has appealed the judgment and filed for a stay of execution at the Supreme Court.

The Altercation

On Wednesday, the situation escalated when Ude-Okoye was blocked from entering the meeting hall by Emmanuel Okoronkwo, a party protocol officer and Anyanwu’s aide. Ude-Okoye’s supporters then scaled the fence, overpowering Okoronkwo and others, and security personnel struggled to maintain order.

Eyewitness Accounts

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with party members and supporters of both Ude-Okoye and Anyanwu engaging in a heated argument. “It was like a war zone,” said one eyewitness. “People were shouting and pushing each other. It was a very tense situation.”

Party Reaction

The PDP has condemned the violence, calling it “unacceptable” and “embarrassing.” The party’s national chairman, Umar Damagum, has called for calm and urged party members to resolve their differences peacefully.

Security Measures

Security has been beefed up at the PDP headquarters to maintain order. Police and military vans are patrolling the area, and party members are being screened before being allowed into the premises.

Implications

The leadership crisis in the PDP has significant implications for the party’s future. The party is scheduled to hold its national convention soon, and the crisis could affect the outcome of the convention.

The fight at the PDP headquarters is a reflection of the deeper leadership crisis within the party. The party needs to find a way to resolve its differences peacefully and move forward. The Nigerian people are watching, and the party’s ability to manage its internal conflicts will determine its relevance in the country’s political landscape.