The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has once again been thrown into the spotlight after a dramatic confrontation at its National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Abuja. On Tuesday, the faction led by the newly elected National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki, reclaimed control of the building following a tense face-off with loyalists of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
The incident, which many party members described as chaotic and embarrassing, is the latest in a long list of internal struggles that have troubled the PDP in recent years. The party, once Nigeria’s dominant political force, has been battling a deepening leadership crisis since losing power at the federal level in 2015.
One of the most shocking parts of Tuesday’s clash was the claim by two serving governors that they were tear-gassed by police officers during the confusion.
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, told journalists that he and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, were caught in the middle of the confrontation while trying to attend a meeting at the Secretariat.
According to Mohammed, the governors were trying to restore calm when police officers allegedly fired tear gas, causing panic and forcing people to flee the area. He described the incident as “unfortunate” and “unnecessary,” noting that governors should not have to face such treatment at the headquarters of their own political party.
Governor Makinde did not speak extensively on the matter, but he confirmed that the situation was tense and that the use of tear gas created confusion among party officials and supporters.
The clash began when members of Turaki’s faction arrived at the Secretariat for an important meeting. At the same time, another group loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike was also trying to use the facility. The two groups exchanged heated words, claiming rights to the same venue.
Witnesses said the argument quickly escalated, with both sides refusing to step aside. Security operatives were called in, and in the ensuing chaos, tear gas was reportedly fired. Party members ran for safety, while the surroundings of Wadata Plaza were thrown into disorder for several minutes.
The police have not yet issued an official statement to confirm whether their officers actually fired tear gas, nor have they explained what led to the breakdown of order.
After calm returned to the area, Tanimu Turaki finally entered the Secretariat and officially assumed office as the PDP National Chairman. He was accompanied by Governors Bala Mohammed and Seyi Makinde, who showed strong support for his leadership.
Turaki’s emergence as chairman followed internal elections earlier in the week, elections that some factions within the party rejected. His supporters believe his leadership will restore peace and unity in the PDP, while opponents argue that his election did not follow proper procedures.
Speaking briefly after taking charge, Turaki promised to work towards rebuilding the party, strengthening its structures, and preparing it for the next electoral cycle. He said the PDP must return to its roots as a party that promotes democracy, unity, and fairness.
The PDP has been struggling with internal divisions for several years. After losing the 2019 and 2023 presidential elections, disagreements over leadership, zoning, and control of party resources widened the cracks within the party.
The emergence of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike as a powerful figure within the party has also contributed to tensions. Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, openly disagreed with key party leaders before the 2023 elections and has remained influential even after joining the federal cabinet of the All Progressives Congress (APC) government.
Many party members feel his influence has created confusion and divided loyalties within the PDP, while others believe he still commands strong support and should not be sidelined.
The expulsion of some members seen as loyal to Wike earlier in the year further deepened the crisis. The Tuesday confrontation was a direct result of these unresolved tensions.
For now, Tanimu Turaki and the governors backing him say they will focus on stabilising the party and uniting its members. But with the factional lines still sharp and emotions running high, bringing peace to the PDP will be a difficult task.
Tuesday’s clash has once again shown how fragile the party’s internal structure has become. However, many members still believe the PDP can recover if its leaders put aside personal interests and work together for the party’s survival.
