The minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has backed the National Working Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party that is currently overseeing the renovation of Wadata Plaza, the party’s national secretariat in Abuja. Renovation work began on Sunday, shortly after the police unsealed the facility, granting access to the Wike-aligned faction.
A reporter from the News Agency of Nigeria observed on Monday that while barricades around the main building had been removed, a few police vehicles remained stationed nearby with personnel still present. The renovation includes painting, replacing air conditioners, changing locks and keys, and allocating offices to the newly appointed National Working Committee members.
A party member, speaking on condition of anonymity, said staff had yet to resume work but confirmed that renovation activities were underway. He noted that some staff loyal to the rival Tanimu Turaki-led NWC might be reluctant to return under the new leadership.
As of the time of reporting, no party officials had arrived at the secretariat. On Saturday, the faction’s National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, announced the reopening of both the PDP national secretariat and the presidential campaign office at Legacy House, Maitama. In a statement issued by National Publicity Secretary Jungudo Mohammed, he said the unsealing complied with “duly issued court orders” and that the property had been handed to the Mohammed-led NWC, with Senator Samuel Anyanwu as national secretary.
Mohammed commended the police for their professionalism and adherence to the rule of law but warned that the party would not tolerate obstruction, disruption, or breaches of peace at the secretariat.
The Turaki-led faction has rejected the move, describing it as contemptuous. Its spokesman, Ini Ememobong, said the judgment cited by the police was under appeal and that all parties had been duly informed. He warned that the action could render any forthcoming Court of Appeal ruling ineffective.
The dispute highlights ongoing internal divisions within the PDP, with rival factions claiming legitimacy and control over party assets. The situation remains fluid as both sides await further legal and political developments.
