The political rift rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) took a new twist as leaders of the party in the South East have thrown their full weight behind Senator Samuel Anyanwu, insisting on his continued recognition as the party’s authentic National Secretary.
At a strategic meeting held in Abakaliki, key figures of the party from the region—including former Abia State Governor Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, Senators Michael Amah Nnachi and Paulinus Igwe Nwagu, Hon. Jones Onyeriri, Barr. Ukpai Ukairo, Rt. Hon. Mike Ahumibe, and chairmen of the Imo and Abia PDP chapters—issued a communiqué reaffirming Anyanwu’s legitimacy.
Citing a Supreme Court verdict which confirmed Anyanwu’s position, the leaders called on the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) to comply fully with the ruling, urging it to disregard any factional decisions that contradict the court’s directive.
In particular, they dismissed a recent meeting allegedly convened by Chief Ali Odefa, labeling it as unconstitutional and illegitimate.
The communiqué pointed to multiple court judgments which, according to the group, validate Odefa’s suspension and expulsion from the party.
They also demanded that contempt charges be filed against him for actions they say undermine the authority of the judiciary.
Beyond the leadership tussle, the stakeholders called for immediate congresses to be conducted in Ebonyi and Anambra States, stressing that both states currently lack recognized State Working Committees.
The meeting saw an expression of confidence in the party’s reconciliation process led by former Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki.
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The leaders praised the committee’s efforts and warned against any attempts to derail its work, referencing a controversial gathering in Enugu which they deemed an affront to unity and due process.
“The Enugu meeting has no legal basis,” they stated. “We reject it outright and reaffirm our support for the Saraki-led peace process which we believe will restore order and respect for the constitution.”
The South East PDP leaders were categorical in emphasizing that only Anyanwu is empowered to act as National Secretary, warning that any documents or decisions issued without his endorsement would be considered null and void.
“The PDP Constitution is clear: the Deputy National Secretary acts only in the absence of the National Secretary—not in place of him. Any deviation is unconstitutional and unacceptable,” the communiqué read.
Chief Chidiebere Egwu, recently affirmed as the PDP’s National Vice Chairman (South East), echoed the sentiments during a separate meeting in Abuja, reiterating support for Senator Anyanwu and describing the Enugu meeting as a political misstep.
The message from the South East PDP is unambiguous: respect the courts, uphold the constitution, and rally around legitimate leadership for the party to move forward.