PDP Accuses ‘State-Backed Attackers’ of Storming National Secretariat, Thanks Nigerians for Support

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused what it described as “anti-democratic forces” of attempting to seize its National Secretariat in Abuja, praising Nigerians for rallying behind the opposition during Monday’s confrontation.

The party’s newly inaugurated National Working Committee (NWC), led by National Chairman Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, said the outpouring of public support reinforced its belief that many citizens still consider the PDP a leading alternative ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to a statement shared on the party’s official Facebook page, crowds cheered as Turaki arrived for his first NWC meeting, accompanied by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

But the PDP claimed chaos erupted shortly after when police officers and “hired thugs” allegedly loyal to expelled former National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and backed by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, blocked access to the secretariat.

The party accused the group of attempting to physically stop its leadership from entering the premises.

“Without any provocation, they fired tear gas canisters at the Governors, NWC members, party leaders and peaceful supporters,” the statement read. “This reckless action triggered a stampede and caused multiple injuries. They fired over 200 canisters at unarmed citizens who had gathered to witness a lawful party meeting.”

The PDP has called on the international community, democracy watchdogs, and global institutions to denounce what it described as a disturbing attack on political freedoms in Nigeria.

Reaffirming its commitment to democratic values, the NWC urged security agencies to maintain neutrality, safeguard citizens, and channel their efforts toward combating insecurity rather than being used to target opposition parties.

The party vowed to resist any attempt by “anti-democratic actors” to destabilise the PDP or undermine Nigeria’s democratic system.