The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed gratitude to Nigerians and its members for standing with the party during what it described as an attempt by anti-democratic elements to seize its National Secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday.
In a statement issued by the newly elected National Working Committee (NWC), led by National Chairman Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, the party said the support and resolve shown by citizens helped it withstand what it called state-backed intimidation.
Party Hails Public Support
The PDP said the incident demonstrated once again that Nigerians still regard the party as their preferred political platform ahead of the 2027 elections.
It noted that many supporters cheered as Turaki arrived for the first official meeting of the new NWC, accompanied by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
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According to the statement, the confrontation began when police officers and thugs allegedly hired by expelled former National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and supported by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, also expelled, blocked the entrance of the secretariat.
The group was accused of attempting to stop party leaders from entering the building.
PDP Alleges Teargas Attack
The PDP said the situation escalated when security agents fired teargas without provocation.
“Without any provocation, they fired tear-gas canisters at the governors, NWC members, party leaders and peaceful supporters.
“This reckless action triggered a stampede and resulted in multiple injuries. They fired over 200 canisters at unarmed and harmless citizens who had gathered to witness a lawful party meeting,” the statement read.
Call for International Condemnation
The party urged the international community, pro-democracy organisations and global institutions to denounce what it described as an assault on political freedom in Nigeria.
It reaffirmed its commitment to defending democracy and called on security agencies to remain neutral, safeguard citizens and focus on addressing insecurity rather than being used against opposition parties.
PDP Vows to Resist Intimidation
The NWC maintained that it would continue to resist all attempts by what it termed anti-democratic actors to destabilise the PDP or undermine the democratic process.
The party also restated its resolve to protect its secretariat, its members and Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
