Debate Continues Within PDP On National Secretary Issue Amidst Efforts To Unite

Following a recent Court of Appeal ruling in Enugu that ousted Senator Samuel Anyanwu and declared former National Youth Leader Sunday Okoye as the substantive National Secretary, the party is deeply divided on how to handle the judgment.

A senior NWC member, speaking anonymously to Punch, revealed that the court’s decision has further fractured the party leadership. While Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum and National Organizing Secretary Umar Bature are cautious about enforcing the ruling, others, including PDP Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade, SAN, and National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, are advocating for its immediate implementation.

The conflict stems from a protracted dispute after the South East PDP nominated Ude-Okoye to replace Anyanwu, who transitioned into a governorship candidate for Imo State. This nomination led to conflicting court rulings, with the Appeal Court ultimately upholding the Enugu High Court’s decision.

While Damagum and Anyanwu seek to appeal the judgment, party members like Okoye and other key leaders are insisting on the judgment’s enforcement. Okoye maintains that the court’s ruling is clear and has resumed his duties as the PDP National Secretary.

The ongoing power struggle within the NWC is raising concerns about the party’s unity, with some factions accusing Damagum of leveraging Anyanwu’s support to sustain his position during internal crises. The unfolding situation reflects a broader challenge of managing legal disputes and maintaining party cohesion amidst leadership conflicts.