The atmosphere at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday was anything but ordinary. What began as a routine political day slowly unfolded into a dramatic scene, filled with emotion, tension, and passion from party loyalists on all sides. Yet, beneath the surface of the turmoil was a reminder of just how deeply members care about the future of their party.
From the early hours of the morning, two major factions arrived, each confident in its leadership and eager to make its voice heard. Supporters of Sen. Samuel Anyanwu, backed by Minister Nyesom Wike, gathered with the intention of holding their own meetings. At almost the same time, the Ibadan newly elected National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, arrived with his team to resume official duties and convene his first National Working Committee meeting.
As both groups tried to access the secretariat, the tension naturally grew. Supporters exchanged sharp words, and a crowd quickly formed around the entrance. Security operatives eventually intervened, using tear gas to calm the situation when it became clear the confrontation was escalating. Staff members, journalists, and bystanders moved to safety as the crowd tried to regain composure.
Despite the difficult atmosphere, leaders on both sides made efforts to communicate their commitment to peace and transparency. Turaki later explained that his team was finally able to settle in and take charge of his office after the situation eased. He emphasized that everything being done was in the interest of the party’s stability and unity. At the same time, the opposing faction also maintained that their presence was lawful and that their concerns deserved attention.
Recognizing the need for calm, the PDP Board of Trustees quickly announced a reconciliation initiative — a gentle reminder that despite disagreements, the party still values dialogue, harmony, and the collective good. In many ways, this gesture helped soften the mood and signaled hope that the tensions of the day would give way to more constructive conversations.
In the end, Tuesday’s events at Wadata Plaza revealed a party still wrestling with internal disagreements, but also one whose members are deeply committed and emotionally invested. And while the day brought its share of disorder, it equally showcased resilience — the kind that, with patience and dialogue, can guide a party back to steadier ground.
