PDP Abuja Secretariat Cordoned Off As Rival Party Factions Engage In Chaotic Confrontation Over Leadership Legitimacy [VIDEO]

 

The national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party in Abuja was cordoned off on Wednesday after violent clashes erupted between rival factions the previous day. Security operatives placed barbed-wire barricades across the entrance at Wadata Plaza, effectively sealing off access to the party headquarters. Officers at the scene stated that the decision to restrict entry came “from above,” but did not provide further clarification.

The unrest followed a confrontation on Tuesday when supporters aligned with Tanimu Turaki, along with Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, and members of the newly elected PDP executive, arrived at the secretariat. They were met by Samuel Anyanwu and his supporters, who are loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Attempts to enter the premises escalated into chaos, prompting police to fire tear gas after Anyanwu’s group allegedly tried to block Turaki’s camp.

Both factions have since claimed legitimacy, creating a tense standoff at the party headquarters. Turaki, flanked by Governors Makinde and Mohammed, publicly accused Minister Wike of orchestrating the unrest and warned that such actions threatened Nigeria’s democratic process. He called for international attention, stating, “Democracy is under threat. I am calling on all advanced democracies to come and save Nigeria.”

Attempts to reach the spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory Police Command were unsuccessful, as calls and messages were not returned. Police remain stationed at the cordoned-off secretariat, maintaining a visible presence to prevent further escalation and ensure the situation does not spiral into additional violence.

Observers note that the standoff at the PDP headquarters highlights long-standing internal divisions within the party, raising concerns about its ability to manage disputes peacefully. Analysts suggest that continued factional clashes at such a central party facility could undermine public confidence and affect the party’s future political prospects.

The cordoning off of the national secretariat has become a symbol of the deepening crisis, signaling the seriousness of the disputes and the need for urgent mediation. Party members, stakeholders, and political commentators are now closely monitoring developments, hoping for dialogue that can restore order and reaffirm the PDP’s role as a cohesive political force.

As security forces maintain strict control over Wadata Plaza, all eyes remain on the party leadership, with expectations that a resolution will be reached swiftly to prevent further disruptions to Nigeria’s political landscape.