The leadership crisis within Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), continues to escalate as factions remain adamant over who occupies the office of the National Secretary. The impasse has led to rising tensions and a potential showdown at the party’s national secretariat.
In a dramatic turn of events, two individuals, Samuel Okoye and Ibrahim Abdullahi, are laying claim to the position. While Okoye’s camp cites a court judgment affirming his role, Abdullahi’s group insists that his appointment by the National Working Committee (NWC) stands. Both parties have vowed to resume duties at the party headquarters today, January 15, setting the stage for a tense confrontation.
The conflict stems from a ruling by a Federal High Court in Abuja, which declared Okoye the legitimate National Secretary following the removal of the former scribe, Senator Samuel Anyanwu. Okoye has received backing from key party members, including the PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Adolphus Wabara, who urged the NWC to comply with the court’s judgment to prevent further division. Wabara warned against actions that could undermine the party’s unity, emphasizing the importance of respecting judicial rulings.
However, Abdullahi’s camp argues that the court ruling does not invalidate his appointment, as it was a collective decision by the NWC to fill a perceived vacancy. Supporters claim his selection followed due process and reflects the will of the party’s leadership. Abdullahi himself has expressed determination to fulfill his mandate, dismissing calls for his removal as politically motivated.
The standoff has sparked concerns among party faithful, with many warning that the crisis could derail the PDP’s efforts to reposition itself ahead of upcoming elections. Insiders reveal that both factions have mobilized supporters to the party’s Wadata Plaza headquarters in Abuja, raising fears of potential violence or disruption.
Meanwhile, calls for reconciliation are growing louder. Some stakeholders have urged the party to convene an emergency meeting to resolve the impasse and restore unity. Analysts note that the PDP’s ability to manage internal disputes will be crucial for its future prospects, particularly as it seeks to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.
As the two secretaries prepare to resume duties today, all eyes are on the party’s leadership to see how they navigate this deepening crisis. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for the PDP’s cohesion and credibility in the political landscape.
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