Chaos broke out at the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja on Tuesday as two rival factions attempted to hold separate meetings within the same premises.
The crisis pits the National Working Committee (NWC) elected at the Ibadan convention against the faction loyal to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Both groups had earlier scheduled their Board of Trustees (BoT) and National Executive Committee (NEC) meetings for the same day.
Naija News had earlier reported that the National Secretary of the pro-Wike faction, Samuel Anyanwu, arrived at Wadata Plaza early with members of his camp. He proceeded to address journalists, insisting that the heavy security presence was routine and meant to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
He maintained that his faction was “fully prepared” for the BoT and NEC meetings.
Shortly after, members of the Taminu Turaki–led NWC arrived at the secretariat but were barred from entering by security operatives stationed at the gates.
Two governors who accompanied the group, however, forced their way into the premises. As other members attempted to follow, security operatives fired gunshots into the air and released teargas to disperse the crowd.
The sudden discharge of gunshots and teargas triggered confusion as party supporters, staff, and visitors ran for safety.
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