In a dramatic turn of events, Nigeria’s main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), held its historic 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting today amid police presence, confusion over the venue, and deep internal divisions.
The gathering, which also involved the Board of Trustees (BoT), was initially scheduled for the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja but was almost derailed when security operatives attempted to seal the venue.
Here’s a detailed look at everything that happened:
Police Attempt to Stop the Meeting
Early this morning, heavily armed police officers arrived at the PDP National Secretariat. Witnesses reported that the operatives blocked entrances and restricted movement around the area.
Party insiders claimed the action was connected to factional disputes over the legitimacy of the meeting notice—particularly the controversy surrounding Senator Samuel Anyanwu’s status as National Secretary.
Security sources, however, insisted the deployment was to prevent a potential breakdown of law and order, citing intelligence that rival groups could clash at the secretariat.
Movement of the Meeting to Another Venue
Determined not to let the police action sabotage their gathering, party leaders quickly resolved to move the meeting to an alternative location.
The NEC eventually reconvened at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, where both the BoT members and National Working Committee (NWC) stakeholders continued deliberations behind closed doors.
This last-minute relocation allowed proceedings to continue without disruption, even as rival factions accused each other of attempting to hijack the process.
The Major Decisions Taken
Despite the confusion, the PDP NEC made several far-reaching decisions that could shape the party’s future:
Affirmation of Senator Samuel Anyanwu
The NEC resolved that Senator Anyanwu remains the substantive National Secretary, ending months of disputes over his suspension and the question of who had authority to sign official documents.
Compliance With INEC Regulations.
NEC pledged that all future meeting notices and correspondence will fully comply with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) requirement that both the National Chairman and National Secretary must sign convening notices.
Next NEC Meeting Date Fixed
The party agreed to hold the 101st NEC meeting on July 23, 2025, where further resolutions on internal reconciliation and convention preparations will be discussed.
Commitment to Unity
NEC members issued a communique stressing that the PDP remains a united family despite the attempt to intimidate and disrupt its operations.
Background of the Crisis
Today’s events are the latest chapter in a power tussle that has rocked the PDP since the last general elections.
Faction A argued that Anyanwu forfeited his position when he ran for governor in 2023.
Faction B insisted he remained the legally recognized secretary whose signature was essential for convening NEC meetings.
INEC had earlier rejected NEC notices that did not bear his signature, prompting renewed tensions.
These divisions set the stage for today’s high-stakes showdown.
Reactions From Party Leaders
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum expressed relief that despite all obstacles, the NEC succeeded in conducting its business: “This is a victory for democracy and for the PDP family. We have shown the world that no amount of intimidation can break our resolve,” he declared.
Other party elders called on all stakeholders to put personal interests aside and focus on building a credible alternative platform ahead of the 2027 elections.
What Happens Next?
With the next NEC meeting scheduled for late July, all eyes will be on whether today’s decisions bring lasting peace or spark fresh legal battles.
For now, the PDP leadership insists that unity has prevailed—despite the morning’s dramatic police blockade and emergency venue change.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
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