On Tuesday, 18th November, heavy security engulfed the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja as rival factions, led by prominent party leaders, vowed to hold parallel meetings in defiance of ongoing internal disputes.
The dramatic scenes unfolded at Wadata House, where factions loyal to former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde attempted to conduct separate meetings despite heightened tension. Police officers, accompanied by operatives from the Directorate of State Services (DSS), stationed barricades and patrolled the premises, determined to prevent any escalation or breakdown of order.
Eyewitnesses described the situation as “chaotic,” mentioning the use of teargas by police to disperse surging crowds of supporters from both sides. “It is unclear what discussion is currently taking place inside the secretariat, but the crowd was chanting, ‘We want justice!’ and ‘No imposition!’ as the confrontations grew intense,” a party official said.
Sources at the scene confirmed that the newly elected National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki, arrived with supporters to counter moves aimed at his removal, echoing the sentiments that, “We will not allow our party to be hijacked by selfish interests. Party unity is our priority, and our constitution will guide all actions,” Turaki stated during an impromptu briefing.
Meanwhile, supporters of Nyesom Wike’s faction protested outside the secretariat, demanding the reversal of Turaki’s recent election. “We want the real PDP—not a group imposed from above. Our voices must count, and we refuse to be silenced,” one protester declared passionately.
The tense standoff led security forces to lock down the building, with some attendees forced to leave. Reports indicate that negotiations are ongoing, and party elders have urged both sides to prioritize reconciliation over division.
As the PDP wrestles with internal discord, the intervention by police and security agencies underscores the volatile nature of political party management in Nigeria, leaving members and observers anxiously awaiting further developments.
