Gunshots, Teargas As Rival PDP Factions Clash In Abuja

Gunshots, Teargas As Rival PDP Factions Clash In Abuja
Gunshots and teargas scattered supporters and officials.
Both camps attempted separate BoT and NEC meetings.

Tension erupted at the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party in Abuja on Tuesday when two opposing factions attempted to hold separate meetings within the same premises, resulting in a chaotic confrontation.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the dispute involves the National Working Committee elected at the Ibadan convention and the faction loyal to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike. Both camps had fixed their Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee meetings for the same day, setting the stage for the standoff.

Earlier in the day, the National Secretary of the pro-Wike faction, Samuel Anyanwu, arrived at Wadata Plaza with members of his group. He addressed journalists and maintained that the heavy security deployment was normal, aimed at preventing unrest. He insisted that his faction was fully prepared to proceed with its scheduled meetings.

Shortly afterwards, members of the Taminu Turaki led National Working Committee arrived at the secretariat but were stopped at the gate by security operatives. Despite the restriction, two governors who accompanied them forced their way into the premises.

Attempts by other members to enter the compound were met with resistance. Security personnel fired gunshots into the air and deployed teargas to disperse the gathering. The sudden discharge of live rounds and teargas created panic, causing party supporters, staff, and visitors to scamper for safety as the situation escalated.