PDP Leadership Crisis: Anyanwu Alleges Governors' Plot to Form New Parties

By Hagxy Don 

In a dramatic escalation of the Peoples Democratic Party's (PDP) internal strife, National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu has accused certain party governors of conspiring to establish new political parties, thereby undermining the PDP's unity. This accusation comes amid a protracted leadership tussle between Anyanwu and Sunday Ude-Okoye over the National Secretary position.

The conflict originated when Anyanwu resigned to contest the November 2023 Imo State governorship election. Following his defeat, he sought to reclaim his former position, asserting that his resignation did not create a vacancy. Conversely, the PDP's South-East leadership nominated Ude-Okoye as his successor, a move later affirmed by the Court of Appeal. Anyanwu has since challenged this decision in the Supreme Court, maintaining that the status quo should be preserved pending the court's verdict.

Anyanwu's recent allegations suggest that some PDP governors are not only fueling internal divisions but are also plotting to form alternative political platforms, potentially fracturing the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. He contends that these actions are detrimental to the PDP's cohesion and electoral prospects.

This internal discord has led to a polarized National Working Committee (NWC) and Board of Trustees (BoT), with members aligning with either Anyanwu or Ude-Okoye. Notably, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has publicly endorsed Ude-Okoye, emphasizing adherence to the rule of law and the recent court pronouncement affirming Ude-Okoye's position.

The ongoing power struggle has raised concerns about the PDP's stability and its ability to present a united front as Nigeria's leading opposition party. Observers warn that prolonged infighting could erode public trust and diminish the party's effectiveness in holding the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) accountable.

As the Supreme Court prepares to deliberate on the matter, the PDP faces a critical juncture. The party's leadership must navigate this crisis carefully to prevent further fragmentation and to uphold its role in Nigeria's democratic process.