The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) intensified on Monday after security operatives sealed off the party’s National Secretariat at Wadata Plaza and the Legacy House in Abuja, following the assumption of office by Abdulrahman Mohammed as Acting National Chairman.
Heavily armed police officers arrived at the Wadata Plaza headquarters early in the day, ordering staff and journalists to leave the premises before locking the gates. Officers were also seen taking strategic positions around the building to prevent access.
Shortly after, another security team cordoned off the Legacy House in Maitama—home of the PDP’s National Convention Organizing Committee—effectively suspending all party activities at both facilities.
Journalists seeking entry were turned away by officers who cited “orders from above” as the basis for the operation.
The move sparked unease among party staff and members nationwide, particularly as it came only hours after Mohammed’s controversial announcement as Acting National Chairman—a development deepening the divisions within the National Working Committee (NWC).
A senior party source told reporters that the deployment was a precautionary measure to forestall clashes between rival factions.
Factions Exchange Accusations
Mohammed’s emergence, believed to be backed by a faction within the NWC aligned with a former South-South governor, has added fuel to the leadership tussle. His supporters accuse the previous leadership of mismanaging the party and pledge to restore stability ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, loyalists of the suspended officials insist that Umar Damagum remains the legitimate Acting National Chairman, describing Mohammed’s appointment as “a political coup.”
Tensions escalated further when PDP staff at the national secretariat staged a protest walkout, holding placards and insisting they would not resume duties until leadership clarity was restored. Some described the situation as “total confusion.”
As at press time, both Wadata Plaza and Legacy House remain sealed, with armed officers maintaining a strong presence. Meanwhile, rivals within the PDP are reportedly holding separate emergency meetings in Abuja to discuss strategies and possible reconciliation.
