The turmoil that has engulfed the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with a wave of suspensions, legal disputes, and rival directives not only promise to intensify the long-running leadership tussle between Acting National Chairman Umar Iliya Damagum and National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, but may turn out to be the party’s final undoing.
The latest confrontation erupted following the party’s announcement of its forthcoming national convention, scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State. Disagreements over the convention’s legitimacy and the conduct of state congresses have split the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) into opposing camps.
Suspensions and Counter-Suspensions
In a statement issued at the weekend, the Damagum-led NWC announced the suspension of National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), and several others, citing “gross misconduct and violation of party rules.” The decision, according to the Acting Chairman, was necessary to restore discipline and prevent what he described as “subversive activities against the collective interest of the party.”
However, in a swift response, a rival faction loyal to Senator Anyanwu announced the suspension of Damagum and some of his allies, accusing them of overstepping their authority and acting in contempt of existing court orders. The group maintains that the Acting Chairman has been operating without due process and using the party’s machinery for personal political interests.
Legal Battle Intensifies
The crisis took a legal turn last week when conflicting letters were filed in court over the party’s legal representation. Damagum reportedly appointed Senior Advocate of Nigeria Chris Uche to represent the PDP in ongoing suits, but National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade countered, arguing that only his office is empowered to appoint counsel on behalf of the party.
The disagreement played out in open court, drawing concern from observers and prompting the presiding judge to caution both sides against bringing internal disputes into the judiciary.
Arrest Orders and Security Involvement
Adding to the confusion, reports emerged that Damagum directed security agencies to arrest a factional chairman, Ahmed Yayari Mohammed, for alleged contempt and impersonation. The move drew criticism from members who warned that involving law enforcement in party matters could further inflame tensions.
Convention Uncertainty
While the national convention remains scheduled, multiple factions within the PDP have questioned its legality, citing pending court cases and unresolved congress disputes in over a dozen states. Party insiders fear that the ongoing internal strife could undermine preparations and damage the party’s image ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Wider Implications
Political analysts say the crisis exposes the deep divisions that have plagued the PDP since its defeat in the 2023 general elections. The rivalry between camps loyal to key figures, including Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and other party elders, has repeatedly stalled reconciliation efforts.
“The PDP’s internal conflict risks rendering it ineffective as an opposition force if urgent steps are not taken to restore unity and trust,” said a senior political observer in Abuja.
As both sides trade accusations and legal maneuvers, the fate of the November convention—and possibly the party’s national leadership—hangs in the balance.
