By Charles Pemu 
In a move aimed at restoring unity and internal cohesion, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially reaffirmed Senator Samuel Anyanwu as its substantive National Secretary. The decision was reached at the party’s landmark 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, held at its national secretariat in Abuja on Monday.
Addressing the press after the meeting, Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, confirmed that the NEC session had a singular agenda: to deliberate on the party’s engagement with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding the legitimacy of the National Secretary position.
“This meeting was focused solely on our dialogue with INEC concerning the office of the National Secretary,” Damagum explained. “NEC has unanimously agreed that Senator Samuel Anyanwu will continue as the National Secretary of our party.”
He further announced that the party’s much-anticipated national convention had been rescheduled to July 23, 2025, to ensure full compliance with INEC guidelines. Notices for the event, he emphasized, will be co-signed by both himself and Anyanwu.
“This outcome showcases the PDP’s resilience. Our governors and key stakeholders were fully present, demonstrating that we remain united and capable of resolving internal issues through dialogue,” he added.
Governors Declare PDP United and Focused
Senator Bala Mohammed, Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, also addressed the gathering, reaffirming the party’s unity.
“There are no factions, no coalitions. The PDP remains a formidable political force,” he declared. Mohammed applauded the National Working Committee (NWC) for addressing internal divisions, stressing that public contradictions and disunity within the party had been resolved.
“We commend the NWC for taking proactive steps. Going forward, there will be no more conflicting press releases,” he assured.
Mohammed acknowledged the role of the Board of Trustees, National Assembly caucuses, and state chapters in keeping the PDP vibrant at the grassroots, despite recent challenges.
Security Disrupts BoT Meeting at PDP Headquarters
Earlier in the day, a meeting of the party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) was disrupted by heavily armed security operatives who blocked access to the PDP headquarters, citing “orders from above.”
The BoT meeting was later relocated to the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja. Chief Bode George, a former PDP Deputy National Chairman, condemned the disruption as undemocratic, warning the Federal Government against authoritarian interference.
“Is Nigeria becoming North Korea? This is a clear abuse of power,” George declared. “The PDP is not a private company. Internal matters should be resolved internally.”
Damagum Urges Members to Stop Undermining Party Unity
In his closing remarks, Damagum cautioned PDP members against demarketing the party through public criticisms, urging restraint and a renewed focus on unity.
“The recent issues that divided us have been resolved. This NEC meeting was held in full compliance with party procedures. Let’s uphold our values and avoid actions that sabotage our progress,” he said.
Saraki: PDP, Democracy Are the Real Winners
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki hailed the NEC meeting as a major victory for democracy and party unity.
“There were no winners or losers today. The PDP and Nigerian democracy triumphed. The unity shown today must be the foundation for rebuilding trust and strength within the party,” Saraki stated.
He praised leaders who made sacrifices and emphasized the need for continued cooperation ahead of the July 23 convention.
Governors Outraged by Security Interference
The action of security agents sparked outrage among PDP governors. BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, and Secretary, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, expressed their disappointment and described the disruption as an attempt to undermine democratic processes.
Makarfi revealed that governors had initially met at the Bauchi Governor’s Lodge to strategize a united approach before being informed of the blockade.
“This interference poses a threat to democracy. Despite this, we remain focused on party unity and will not be deterred,” Makarfi asserted.
Wabara emphasized the historical significance of the 80th BoT meeting and vowed to document it as a testament to the party’s resilience.
“This is a defining moment. Despite the odds, we have shown that the PDP is alive and committed to democratic principles,” he said.
FCT Police Deny Sealing PDP Secretariat
Meanwhile, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command denied claims that it sealed the PDP national secretariat. Spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh clarified that officers were deployed only to maintain order.
“There was no sealing of the premises. Our presence was to ensure public safety, not to interfere in party activities,” she stated.
With the resolution of the NEC meeting and reaffirmation of Anyanwu as National Secretary, the PDP appears to have turned a new page, setting its sights on internal stability and future electoral success.