Police officers were present at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national headquarters on Monday as tensions rose over the position of National Secretary. Samuel Anyawu, the embattled secretary, and Ude Okoye, declared the rightful occupant by the Court of Appeal, were both expected to resume duties.
Supporters of Anyawu staged protests, chanting their loyalty, as Anyawu entered the premises and went straight to his office. He later addressed journalists, stating that the court ruling favoring Okoye has been appealed to the Supreme Court. He dismissed the party’s acknowledgment of Okoye as the secretary as the national publicity secretary’s personal view.
The dispute stems from Anyawu vacating the position to contest for the Imo State governorship election, which he lost. During his absence, Okoye took over and legally challenged Anyawu’s return. The PDP National Working Committee has affirmed its respect for the Court of Appeal’s ruling recognizing Okoye as the legitimate National Secretary.
