As work resumes at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national secretariat in Abuja, tension looms over a brewing leadership crisis between two rival claimants to the National Secretary position—Sunday Ude-Okoye and Senator Sam Anyanwu.
Ude-Okoye, recently recognized by an Appeal Court ruling, and Anyanwu, who has appealed the judgment to the Supreme Court, are both adamant about assuming the role.
Their simultaneous resumption plans on Monday at Wadata Plaza have raised fears among party stakeholders of a potential confrontation that could destabilize the party.
Efforts are reportedly underway by senior party members to defuse tensions, urging both camps to proceed cautiously to avoid clashes.
However, the dispute has already divided the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) and Board of Trustees (BoT).
The leadership tussle stems from Anyanwu’s earlier resignation to contest the Imo State governorship election. Following his loss, Anyanwu sought to reclaim his position, arguing that no vacancy existed.
In contrast, Ude-Okoye, backed by a court ruling, asserts his legitimacy as the National Secretary, citing his nomination by the South East Zone of the party.
Both factions are mobilizing their supporters, with Ude-Okoye signaling his readiness to take control of the office and Anyanwu maintaining his claim on the grounds of an ongoing appeal.
PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba reiterated the party’s commitment to respecting judicial rulings, emphasizing that the PDP is a rule-of-law-compliant organization.
However, the implications of Anyanwu’s Supreme Court appeal remain uncertain.
The conflict underscores the deepening internal rift within the PDP, raising concerns about the party’s unity and its ability to present a strong front ahead of upcoming elections.
Party stakeholders fear that prolonged disputes could alienate members and provide opportunities for political rivals to exploit these divisions.
As the national secretariat reopens, all eyes will be on the two claimants, whose actions could either heighten tensions or pave the way for a resolution to the party’s leadership crisis.
