PDP Factions Head for Impending Clash Today at Wadata Plaza

The Peoples Democratic Party is facing a fresh confrontation today as two rival groups plan separate meetings at Wadata Plaza in Abuja. A faction linked to Nyesom Wike circulated notices for a board of trustees session at 11am and a national executive committee meeting at 2pm, insisting that members appear in person.

Leaders elected at the weekend convention in Ibadan, led by Kabiru Turaki, are also insisting on holding their inaugural NEC meeting this morning at the same location. Turaki told reporters on Monday that his team has informed the police of its plans and received assurances that officers will be deployed to prevent disorder. He argued that decisions of the national convention take precedence and said those issuing the parallel notices have been expelled.

Turaki confirmed that his group’s NEC will meet at 10am and said the new national working committee intends to take possession of the party offices without delay.

The dispute follows the Ibadan convention convened by the Umar Damagum group, which went ahead after securing a court order. The convention removed Wike, Samuel Anyanwu, Ayo Fayose and several others, sparking the current standoff between the two blocs now attempting to use the same venue for separate meetings.