The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party aligned with Nyesom Wike has taken control of the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja after the facility was reopened by the Nigeria Police Force.
Confirming the development in a statement on Saturday, the National Working Committee led by Abdulrahman Mohammed, through its National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, warned that it would not tolerate any actions capable of causing disruption, obstruction, or a breakdown of peace at the secretariat going forward.
The PDP has been entangled in a prolonged internal crisis, which escalated into chaos at its National Headquarters, Wadata Plaza, Abuja, on November 18. The clash involved a rival National Working Committee faction led by Tanimu Turaki and supported by Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, against the Wike-backed Mohammed-led faction.
After months of legal disputes, the Court of Appeal Nigeria delivered a ruling on March 9 in favour of Wike’s camp, nullifying the November 16 Ibadan convention that had been backed by the governors.
Reacting to the development, the Mohammed-led PDP leadership commended the Nigeria Police Force for its professionalism and adherence to the rule of law, stating that the action demonstrates respect for constitutional order and due process.
The statement read in part, “The National Working Committee of the Peoples’ Democratic Party hereby informs all members and the general public that the Party’s National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, as well as The Legacy House, Maitama, have been unsealed by the Nigeria Police Force and handed over to the National Chairman, Hon. Abdulrahman Mohammed Takushara, and Senator Samuel Anyawu, National Secretary, in full compliance with duly issued court orders.
“The Party commends the Nigeria Police Force for its professionalism and adherence to the rule of law. This action is a clear demonstration of respect for constitutional order and due process.
“The Party strongly warns that it will not condone any act capable of causing obstruction, disruption, or breach of peace at the secretariat again. All individuals and groups are advised to conduct themselves within the bounds of the law, as security agencies have been duly alerted to take necessary action against violators.
“This positive development reassures members that the recent challenges confronting the Party have been effectively resolved. We therefore call on all aggrieved members to sheath their swords and embrace unity in the collective interest of the Party.”
The Mohammed-led NWC also praised Wike for his leadership role during the crisis.
It added, “The Party also expresses its profound appreciation to our leaders and stakeholders for their steadfast support during this period. In particular, we acknowledge the guidance and commitment of our National Leader, His Excellency, Chief Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, the Honourable Minister of the FCT, whose support has been invaluable.
“Together, we move forward, stronger, united, and more committed to our shared vision.”
What you should know
The Peoples Democratic Party faction aligned with Nyesom Wike has taken control of the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja after it was reopened by the Nigeria Police following a Court of Appeal ruling.
The crisis began with clashes between rival factions in November and escalated into legal battles over party leadership. The court nullified a convention backed by opposing governors, affirming Wike’s camp. The party leadership has now warned against further disruptions and called for unity among members.
The development signals a temporary resolution of the internal crisis, though underlying tensions within the PDP may still persist ahead of future elections.
