BREAKING: Gunshots, Teargas As Rival PDP Factions Clash At National Secretariat

By Tony Uzo

Tension erupted on Tuesday at the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja as two rival factions clashed while attempting to hold parallel meetings within the same premises.

The confrontation involved the National Working Committee (NWC) elected at the Ibadan convention and the faction loyal to Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. Both camps had slated their Board of Trustees (BoT) and National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings for the same day, setting the stage for a showdown.

Earlier in the day, National Secretary of the pro-Wike faction, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, arrived at Wadata Plaza with his supporters. Addressing journalists, he dismissed concerns over the heavy deployment of security operatives, describing it as a routine measure to maintain order. He insisted that his camp was “fully prepared” for the day’s meetings.

Moments later, the NWC led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki arrived but met stiff resistance at the gate as security personnel prevented them from entering the secretariat.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, who accompanied the Turaki-led team, forced their way in. As other members of the faction attempted to follow, security operatives responded with gunshots fired into the air and teargas canisters to disperse the gathering.

The sudden use of force caused chaos, sending party members, staff, and visitors scrambling for safety.

The situation remains tense as both factions continue to lay claim to the party’s leadership and authority to convene official meetings. Further details are expected as events unfold.