The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reaffirmed Samuel Anyanwu as the party’s National Secretary, quelling months of internal disputes and leadership uncertainty.
The announcement, made by Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum during a press conference on Wednesday at 3:51 PM WAT, underscores the PDP’s push for unity and adherence to its constitution ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Anyanwu, a former senator from Imo East, was elected National Secretary at the PDP’s 2021 National Convention. Tensions arose in 2023 when he contested the Imo State governorship election, prompting factions within the PDP to claim he had vacated his national role, citing party rules barring simultaneous officeholding and elective candidacy. The dispute fueled legal battles and attempts to appoint an acting secretary, deepening rifts within the party.
Following Anyanwu’s loss to APC’s Governor Hope Uzodinma in the 2023 Imo election, his supporters lobbied for his reinstatement. After extensive consultations and legal reviews, the NWC’s decision to back Anyanwu aims to stabilize the PDP’s leadership structure.
PDP members have hailed the move as a step toward reconciliation, with Taroh community leaders urging the party to refocus as Nigeria’s main opposition force.
Damagum emphasized the NWC’s commitment to resolving internal conflicts to strengthen the PDP’s position. The affirmation of Anyanwu signals a strategic effort to unite factions and bolster the party’s readiness for future electoral battles, as it seeks to challenge the ruling APC’s dominance.