Mathew Amaechi
The reinstated National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Samuel Anyanwu and close associate of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the coalition efforts led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Anyanwu emphasized the importance of party unity and urged members to focus on strengthening the PDP from within.
Anyanwu’s comments come in response to the formation of a coalition by the 2023 presidential candidates, including Atiku Abubakar of the PDP, Peter Obi of the Labour Party and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai. The alliance aims to present a united front against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election. Anyanwu expressed his lack of awareness regarding the coalition and called on PDP members to remain dedicated to the party’s internal growth.
The PDP has faced internal conflicts, particularly concerning leadership positions. Acting National Chairman of the party, Umar Damagum, has been under scrutiny for allegedly working for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The position of the National Secretary of the party also experienced a dispute when the South-East nominated Sunday Ude-Okoye to replace Anyanwu, who had contested in the Imo governorship race in 2023.
However, the Supreme Court recently reinstated Anyanwu, ruling that leadership issues within political parties are internal matters.Anyanwu expressed relief over the court’s decision, stating that it marked the end of a significant crisis within the PDP. He acknowledged the emotional toll the conflict had taken but emphasized the need for unity and collaboration to reposition the party. He also announced plans for an upcoming National Working Committee (NWC) meeting to address internal issues and foster reconciliation.
Addressing the coalition talks, Anyanwu clarified that the PDP is not involved in any such alliances and has not been invited to any coalition meetings. He urged those advocating a coalition to consider joining the PDP, highlighting the party’s strength at various levels. He stated, “The crisis is over, so people should move into the PDP rather than PDP joining any coalition.”
Members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, echoed Anyanwu’s sentiments, calling for reconciliation within the NWC. They emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among party leaders to ensure the PDP’s survival and success in future elections.
