Amanze Chinonye
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused “anti-democratic forces” of attempting to prevent its newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) from accessing the party’s National Secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday, alleging police complicity and the involvement of expelled party members.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP said the incident occurred when the National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, arrived for the inaugural meeting of the new executive alongside Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.
According to the party, the entrance to its headquarters was barricaded by “compromised” police personnel and thugs allegedly loyal to the expelled former National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, who was also expelled. The PDP claimed the group attempted to stop the NWC members from entering the premises.
The statement further alleged that security operatives fired tear gas at party leaders, governors, and supporters without provocation, leading to a stampede and multiple injuries.
“They fired over 200 canisters at unarmed and harmless citizens who had gathered to witness a lawful party meeting,” the PDP said, describing the confrontation as “state-backed aggression.”
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Despite the chaos, the party said its supporters remained steadfast until the NWC eventually gained access to the secretariat.
The PDP framed the incident as an attack on Nigeria’s democratic culture, accusing the administration of President Bola Tinubu of undermining opposition. “This attack on opposition…constitutes a direct threat to the survival of our democracy,” it said.
Calling the development a danger sign for the country, the party urged the international community to “unequivocally condemn this brazen assault on democratic freedom.”
The PDP also cautioned security agencies against being used as “tools in the hands of oppressors,” urging them instead to focus on combating insecurity across the country.
The party maintained that it remains resolute in defending Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that “Nigeria’s democracy must endure.”
The Nigeria Police Force and the office of the FCT Minister had not responded to the allegations as of press time.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
