PDP NEC Reaffirms Sam Anyanwu as National Secretary, Postpones National Convention

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially reaffirmed Senator Samuel Anyanwu as its substantive National Secretary, putting to rest weeks of internal disputes and speculations surrounding the position. This decision was reached during the party’s 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held on Tuesday at the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja.

Addressing the media after the crucial meeting, PDP’s Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, explained that the NEC had convened with a singular focus—to deliberate on the party’s recent interactions with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding the contentious issue of the National Secretary.

“As you can see, we just rose from our 100th NEC meeting. This meeting was a one-agenda meeting, which is to discuss the outcome of our interaction with INEC as regards the National Secretary,” Damagum clarified. He confirmed that the NEC reached a unanimous resolution that Senator Anyanwu should continue to serve as the party’s National Secretary.

National Convention Deferred to July 23

In addition to resolving the leadership question, the PDP NEC also announced the postponement of the much-anticipated national convention. Originally scheduled for this month, the convention has now been deferred to the next NEC meeting set for July 23, 2025.

Damagum assured members that the rescheduled convention would adhere strictly to the regulations set by INEC. He stated that all official notices for the convention would be jointly signed by himself and Senator Anyanwu to ensure full compliance and transparency.

“We are committed to following INEC’s guidelines to the letter. The next convention will be a transparent and inclusive process that reflects the will of our party members,” Damagum assured. He added that the postponement was strategic to consolidate internal stability and prepare adequately for the exercise.

Party Demonstrates Unity Despite Internal Challenges

Reacting to widespread speculation that the NEC meeting could deepen the party’s internal crisis, Damagum dismissed such concerns, insisting that the PDP remains united and resilient. He highlighted the full attendance of PDP governors, senators, and key stakeholders as a testament to the party’s strength and cohesion.

“To our detractors who thought this meeting would be incongruous and mark the end of the party, the beauty of the PDP is that we know how to solve our problems. We are free and united,” he declared confidently.

The Acting National Chairman also emphasized that the NEC resolution signals an end to the recent wave of contradictory press statements and public dissent within the party. He described the outcome as the beginning of a new chapter focused on stability, forward planning, and electoral readiness.

Heavyweight PDP Leaders Storm NEC Meeting in Show of Support

The NEC meeting witnessed the presence of a powerful delegation of PDP leaders, including six serving governors: Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Dauda Lawal of Zamfara, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, and Douye Diri of Bayelsa.

Also in attendance were top party stalwarts such as Senator Henry Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West), Senator Abba Moro (Benue South), former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki, and respected party elder Professor Jerry Gana. The gathering underscored the broad-based support for the NEC’s decisions and the commitment of stakeholders to party unity.

Notable others included PDP Deputy National Chairman (South) Taofeek Arapaja, former Information Minister Labaran Maku, Ude Okoye, former PDP Vice Chairman (South West) Eddy Olafeso, and Chief Ali Odefa, the party’s National Vice Chairman for the South East.

NEC Decision Signals End to Factional Disputes

With the NEC’s endorsement of Senator Anyanwu, the PDP appears to have turned the page on the factional disputes that have dogged the party in recent months. The decision not only strengthens Anyanwu’s mandate but also sends a clear message that the party leadership is focused on reconciliation and electoral preparedness ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, Chief Bode George, former Minister Josephine Anenih, House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda, former Imo lawmaker Jones Onyereri, Senator Austin Akobundu (Abia Central), and former Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel were among other influential figures who participated in the meeting.

As the PDP prepares for its rescheduled national convention, the NEC’s resolution is seen as a strategic move to consolidate the party’s internal democracy, restore discipline, and project a united front to party members and Nigerians at large.