The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has convened an urgent meeting in Abuja today, Wednesday, to address the ongoing leadership crisis within the party, particularly the dispute over the National Secretary position.
The meeting, scheduled for 11 a.m. at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, brings together key party stakeholders to deliberate on recent developments. A major agenda item is the report from the committee led by former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, which has been assessing the situation.
Security Concerns Prompt Venue Change
A PDP insider, who requested anonymity, disclosed that the BoT opted to hold the meeting at Transcorp Hilton rather than the PDP National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, due to security concerns stemming from last week’s incidents.
“This decision was made to ensure the safety of our members. While the BoT usually meets at the party headquarters, recent events necessitated a change of venue,” the source explained.
Rival Factions and Court Rulings in Focus
The crisis revolves around a power struggle between two party factions—one backing Samuel Anyanwu and the other supporting Sunday Ude-Okoye—both claiming the position of National Secretary.
The meeting is expected to review legal developments, including a recent Court of Appeal ruling allowing Anyanwu to retain his position pending a Supreme Court decision. Additionally, discussions may touch on the stance of PDP Governors regarding the matter.
Exclusion of Key Figures from the Meeting
Confirming the meeting, Anyanwu stated that he had not received an invitation. “Yes, the BoT is meeting, but I believe they did not invite me or the National Chairman, Umar Damagum,” he said.
Similarly, Ude-Okoye acknowledged the meeting but affirmed that he was instructed to stay away. “At their last meeting, they asked both of us not to attend until all issues were reviewed and resolved. I will respect their decision,” he said.
With tensions escalating, the outcome of today’s meeting could significantly shape the PDP’s leadership direction in the coming weeks.
