As the Peoples Democratic Party resumed from its vacation on Monday, tension has heightened among staff at the party’s national secretariat due to the ongoing tussle for the position of National Secretary between Senator Samuel Anyanwu and Sunday Ude-Okoye.
Both claimants remain resolute in their intent to assume the role despite the legal battles surrounding the matter.
Former Senate President and PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, has urged the National Working Committee to comply with the Court of Appeal’s judgment that declared Ude-Okoye the substantive National Secretary, replacing Senator Anyanwu. The legal dispute stems from a High Court and subsequent Court of Appeal ruling, both of which invalidated Anyanwu’s position following his emergence as the party’s gubernatorial candidate in Imo State during the 2023 elections.
The Court of Appeal, in a judgment delivered by Justice Ridwan Abdullahi on December 20, 2024, upheld the High Court’s decision that Anyanwu’s continued claim to the office was a violation of the PDP constitution. Justice Abdullahi noted, “Anyanwu’s appeal lacks merit,” emphasising that his candidacy for the gubernatorial election automatically nullified his role as National Secretary.
However, Anyanwu has challenged the rulings at the Supreme Court and filed for a stay of execution, insisting he remains the rightful occupant of the office until the apex court delivers its verdict.
Ude-Okoye, backed by the judgments, maintains he is the legitimate National Secretary, a stance affirmed by PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba. Ologunagba stated, “We have received the judgment of the Court of Appeal affirming S.K.E. Ude-Okoye as National Secretary of PDP. As a responsible political party, we are bound by the judgment and will act accordingly to ensure compliance with the law.”
Staff members at the secretariat expressed concerns over potential unrest as both claimants are reportedly preparing to arrive with their supporters. One staff member, speaking anonymously, said, “The tussle between Anyanwu and Ude-Okoye is beyond their personal interests—it’s about the rule of law. We fear what might happen if both arrive tomorrow.”
Another staff member added, “The court has pronounced Ude-Okoye as National Secretary, but Anyanwu is still in court. Only a Supreme Court decision can settle this matter.”
Senator Wabara has consistently advocated for adherence to the party’s constitution and judicial rulings. In an exclusive interview, he emphasised, “The judgment affirming Ude-Okoye as PDP National Secretary is a welcome decision that upholds the constitution of our party. The NWC must comply with this judgment until a superior court rules otherwise.”
Wabara explained that declaratory judgments, such as the one in question, cannot be stayed but only challenged in a higher court. He said, “I advise those seeking a stay of execution to focus their efforts on the Supreme Court. Declaratory judgments are not subject to stay of execution.”
Ude-Okoye, who was last seen at the PDP secretariat in Abuja, has declared his readiness to revitalise the party’s administrative processes. “I am here to serve and breathe new life into the party. I call on all members to unite for the progress of the PDP,” he told reporters.
Wabara expressed optimism about the PDP’s future, predicting its return to power in 2027. He urged party members to prioritise unity and peace, saying, “Nigerians are counting on the PDP to restore their hope. Let us set aside parochial interests and work together for the greater good.”
The final resolution of the leadership tussle now rests with the Supreme Court, as party faithful and staff brace for the outcome.
