PDP Plunges Into Leadership Crisis as Rival Factions Suspend Each Other

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has descended into a major leadership crisis as two opposing factions of its National Working Committee (NWC) suspended each other on Saturday, plunging the opposition party into confusion less than two years before the 2027 general election.

The chaos began after an emergency NWC meeting in Abuja, where one faction announced the suspension of four national officers. Hours later, another group led by the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, held a separate meeting and declared the suspension of the National Chairman, Amb. Illiya Damagum, along with five other top officials.

Speaking to journalists after the first meeting, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, explained that the suspensions were carried out in line with Sections 58 and 59 of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017). Those affected include Senator Samuel Anyanwu (National Secretary), Hon. Umar Bature (National Organising Secretary), Barr. Kamaldeen Ajibade (National Legal Adviser) and Barr. Okechukwu Osuoha (Deputy National Legal Adviser).

Ologunagba stated that the officers were suspended for one month and referred to the National Disciplinary Committee for further review. During this period, he said, they are to step aside from their positions. He also announced that Hon. Arc. Setonji Koshoedo, the Deputy National Secretary, would serve as acting National Secretary, while the National Director of Legal Services would oversee the Legal Department.

However, in a counter move, Senator Anyanwu described the initial meeting as illegal and accused some NWC members of engaging in misconduct and anti-party activities. He claimed that their actions were capable of destabilising the PDP.

He went on to announce the suspension of Amb. Damagum for alleged incompetence, misuse of party funds and disregard for court rulings. He further accused Ologunagba of issuing unauthorised statements that had deepened confusion within the party.

According to Anyanwu, other suspended members include Deputy National Chairman (South), Amb. Taofeek Arapaja for negligence; National Financial Secretary, Daniel Woyengikuro for alleged diversion of funds; National Youth Leader, Mohammed Kadende for losing the confidence of youths; and Deputy National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo, for assuming a role without authorisation.

He disclosed that all suspended officers had been referred to the Disciplinary Committee to explain why they should not be expelled. Anyanwu also announced that the National Vice-Chairman (North Central) would act as National Chairman, while the party’s Director of Publicity, Chinwe Nnorom, would handle communications.

Despite the mounting internal conflict, Anyanwu insisted the PDP remains strong and united, describing the recent developments as a step toward restoring discipline and credibility within the party.

The unfolding drama has fueled renewed concerns over the PDP’s unity and stability as it works to rebuild and reposition itself ahead of the 2027 general elections.