UPDATE: PDP Governors, Turaki Forcefully Remove Wike Faction From Abuja Secretariat Amid Parallel Meeting Tensions [VIDEO]

 

Tensions escalated sharply at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) headquarters in Abuja on Monday as rival factions clashed over the control of party proceedings. Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, along with the newly elected PDP National Chairman, Taminu Turaki, reportedly expelled the faction aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike from the party’s secretariat, heightening internal party divisions.

The unrest emerged as both the National Working Committee elected in Ibadan, Oyo State, and the Wike-backed faction scheduled meetings at the same time, setting the stage for confrontation. Samuel Anyanwu, National Secretary of the pro-Wike faction, had arrived at Wadata Plaza accompanied by several supporters to hold their meeting. However, disputes quickly escalated into a physical confrontation, forcing Wike’s faction to leave the premises under pressure from opposing party members.

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as Makinde, Bala Mohammed, and Turaki made their way into the PDP National Executive Council hall to proceed with their own scheduled meeting. Security personnel reportedly struggled to maintain order as the factions faced off, with voices raised and party operatives trying to mediate the situation. The pro-Wike members resisted initial attempts to remove them but eventually exited after the situation intensified.

Party insiders indicate that the conflict reflects deeper fault lines within the PDP, which has faced growing internal dissent following recent leadership elections. Analysts note that the confrontation at Wadata Plaza underscores ongoing struggles for influence between state governors and powerful party figures, with Turaki positioning himself to consolidate authority as National Chairman.

The incident also raises concerns about the ability of party leaders to maintain unity ahead of upcoming political contests. With multiple factions asserting control over the party machinery, the likelihood of further disruptions appears high unless proactive measures are taken to mediate disagreements. Sources within the party suggest that the expelled Wike faction is likely to regroup and pursue legal or political avenues to assert their position within the PDP.

Observers described the Monday confrontation as a turning point, signaling that the party’s internal battles may intensify unless reconciliatory efforts succeed. While Makinde, Bala Mohammed, and Turaki succeeded in asserting their authority at the secretariat, the Wike faction’s challenge demonstrates that the PDP remains deeply divided, with loyalty among members split across regional and political lines.

Party analysts predict that the events at Abuja could have long-term implications for the PDP’s cohesion, particularly as elections approach and the necessity of presenting a unified front becomes critical. The confrontation at Wadata Plaza may also influence the party’s image among supporters, potentially affecting public perception of its stability and leadership.

The National Working Committee led by Turaki has vowed to continue with its agenda, asserting control over the party secretariat, while Wike’s faction insists on challenging the legitimacy of the Ibadan election outcomes. Political watchers remain alert to further developments as both sides mobilize supporters to defend their respective claims, leaving the PDP at a critical juncture in its ongoing internal power struggle.