Tensions exploded at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national secretariat on Tuesday as the Taminu Turaki-led National Working Committee (NWC) and the faction led by acting National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed, backed by Minister of FCT Nyesom Wike, squared off fiercely.
The drama unfolded when Gov. Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, chairing the PDP Governors Forum, and Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo arrived at the locked party secretariat gates. Forced to leave their motorcades behind, they gained entry on foot. Minutes later, Wike also arrived but was blocked by the governors’ convoy.
The standoff intensified as security operatives fired teargas to disperse party members, journalists, and political thugs already inside. Deputy Police Commissioner Ishiaku Sharu eventually ordered Gov. Bala Mohammed’s group to leave, but they refused unless Wike exited first. Since a meeting was underway, they returned inside the NWC hall.
At report time, the governors and their supporters remained on the premises while Wike stayed put inside his parked car out front. This showdown follows the faction led by Bala Mohammed expelling Wike and others from the party earlier that Saturday in Ibadan.
The battle for control of PDP’s leadership is far from over.
Leave a comment