Breaking: Trouble erupts at PDP headquarters

Tension flared on Tuesday at the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja as police fired teargas to control a crowd of supporters backing two opposing leadership factions.

The unrest began when Governor Seyi Makinde, Governor Bala Mohammed, and members of the Turaki-led executive arrived at Wadata Plaza, prompting a confrontation with security operatives and loyalists of Senator Samuel Anyanwu, who attempted to prevent their entry into the premises.

Security had been heavily reinforced around the building earlier in the day, with police officers blocking major access points in anticipation of two separate meetings planned by the warring factions—each claiming legitimate authority to lead the opposition party.

Senator Anyanwu and his National Working Committee (NWC), backed by FCT Minister Nyeson Wike, were the first to enter the complex.

Speaking after settling into his office, Anyanwu maintained that he remains the duly elected national secretary until his tenure ends in December.

Responding to questions about the heavy security presence, he confirmed that he had invited the operatives, stating that the party routinely requests additional protection when high-level meetings are scheduled.

He added that the deployment was also meant to prevent “intruders” from disrupting party activities, a thinly veiled reference to the Turaki-backed group, which had likewise announced plans to convene at the same venue.