Abuja witnessed a dramatic political standoff on Tuesday. Factions of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) battled for control at the party’s national headquarters in Wadata Plaza. This event highlighted a deepening leadership crisis within the party.

Governors Makinde, Bala, and New Chairman Arrive

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, arrived at Wadata Plaza. Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, accompanied him. Tanimu Turaki, the newly elected National Chairman, was also with them. They came in a convoy. However, heightened security tension kept them inside Bala Mohammed’s vehicle.

Simultaneously, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was present. He too remained inside his vehicle within the premises. Wike refused to leave the secretariat.

Anyanwu’s Faction Challenges New Leadership

Earlier in the day, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, a prominent figure in the pro-Wike faction, stormed the secretariat. He arrived with numerous supporters. Anyanwu then addressed journalists. He openly mocked the Turaki-led leadership. This new leadership was elected at the Ibadan convention over the weekend. Anyanwu insisted that his camp represented the authentic PDP leadership.

Anyanwu and his loyalists had planned to hold their own meeting. They intended to use the NEC Hall. However, Makinde, Bala Mohammed, and members of the newly inaugurated National Working Committee (NWC) then entered the building.

Meetings Postponed Amid Volatility

Despite heavy security barricades, Governors Makinde and Bala forced their way into the NEC Hall. They subsequently addressed journalists. The governors announced a crucial decision. Both the Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee meetings were postponed. They cited the volatile security situation as the reason for the delay. The meetings are now scheduled for Wednesday.

Chairman Turaki made a strong declaration. He stated that Anyanwu and his faction were “no longer members of the party.” Turaki vowed to protect the mandate given to the new NWC. He called it a sacred duty.

Wike’s Arrival Escalates Tension

Tension surged as the Turaki-led camp prepared to depart. This occurred when Minister Wike arrived at the party headquarters. The FCT Minister forcefully entered the secretariat, pushing through heavy security. His presence caused Makinde, Bala, and Turaki to remain inside the premises. They opted not to leave while Wike was present.

Security operatives later intervened. They ordered everyone, including journalists, to evacuate the premises. This was due to fears of potential breakdown of law and order. However, the governors and other PDP leaders refused to comply. They insisted they would only leave if Minister Wike was also ordered out of the party headquarters.