JUST IN: PDP FINALLY AFFIRMS SAM ANYANWU AS NATIONAL SECRETARY

By: Sefiu Ajape

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally reaffirmed Samuel Anyanwu as the party’s National Secretary, bringing an end to months of internal conflict and leadership uncertainty.

At a press briefing on Wednesday, the party’s Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, confirmed that Anyanwu would resume his duties, emphasizing that the decision underscores the NWC’s dedication to unity and adherence to the rule of law within the party.

Anyanwu, a former senator representing Imo East, was elected as National Secretary during the PDP’s 2021 National Convention. However, his position became controversial in 2023 after he secured the party’s ticket to contest the Imo State governorship election.

His emergence as a governorship candidate sparked internal debate, with some PDP members insisting that by contesting for an elective position, Anyanwu had effectively vacated his role as National Secretary. The PDP constitution prohibits an individual from simultaneously holding party office and seeking an elective post.

This triggered legal battles and competing claims to the position, with some party stakeholders attempting to install an acting secretary during his absence.

Following the conclusion of the 2023 Imo governorship election, in which Anyanwu was defeated by the APC incumbent, Governor Hope Uzodinma, his supporters began pressing for his reinstatement to the national office. After a series of legal consultations and internal deliberations, the NWC has now reaffirmed his role.

The move is widely seen as an attempt to restore stability within the party’s leadership ranks and reposition the PDP for future political contests, particularly the 2027 general elections. It also reflects the NWC’s broader strategy to reconcile internal divisions and strengthen its position as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.