Tension erupted on Tuesday at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Secretariat in Wadata Plaza, Abuja, as a long-simmering leadership dispute escalated into open confrontation, forcing police to fire teargas to control the situation.
The chaos unfolded following the arrival of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, and the faction led by the newly elected PDP National Chairman, Kabiru Turaki. Their presence triggered a rowdy standoff with supporters loyal to the faction of Senator Samuel Anyanwu, who attempted to block the group from entering the secretariat.
Security operatives aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and those backing the governors also clashed, creating a volatile environment that quickly spiraled into unrest. Police resorted to firing teargas to disperse the crowd and restore order around the premises.
Despite the resistance, Governor Makinde eventually gained access to the building alongside the party’s newly elected National Secretary, Taofeek Arapaja. Meanwhile, Minister Wike arrived at the secretariat but remained inside his vehicle for over 30 minutes, without alighting, as the situation intensified outside.
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After leaving the premises, Makinde and Governor Mohammed addressed journalists, confirming the use of teargas and recounting the attempts made by opposing supporters to prevent their entry.
As tensions grew, police authorities ultimately issued a directive ordering all party members and supporters to vacate the area to ensure calm was fully restored.
The incident underscores the deepening rift within the PDP, as factions loyal to different power blocs continue to clash over leadership positions and control of the party’s national structure.