Agency Report with Deborah Nnamdi
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) backed by Nyesom Wike has commenced renovation work at Wadata Plaza, the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, following its recent unsealing by the police.
A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), who monitored developments at the premises in Wuse Zone 5 on Monday, observed that renovation activities were ongoing ahead of the resumption of staff.
The refurbishment comes shortly after police authorities reopened the facility, granting access to the Wike-aligned faction. While barricades previously mounted around the main building have been removed, a number of police vehicles and personnel remain stationed at the secretariat to maintain security.
A party member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that the renovation began on Sunday and includes repainting, replacement of air conditioning units, and changing of locks and keys across offices. The source added that offices are also being reassigned to members of the new NWC.
“The staff members have not resumed, but work started yesterday. However, there are concerns that some staff loyal to the Turaki-led NWC may find it difficult to return,” the source said.
As of the time of filing this report, no party officials had resumed duties at the secretariat.
The factional National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, had on Saturday announced the reopening of both the national secretariat and the party’s presidential campaign office, Legacy House, Maitama.
In a statement issued by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, the chairman said the facilities were unsealed in compliance with duly issued court orders. He added that the property had been handed over to the Mohammed-led NWC, with Samuel Anyanwu serving as National Secretary.
While commending the police for what he described as professionalism and respect for the rule of law, Mohammed warned that the party would not tolerate any form of obstruction or disruption at the secretariat.
Meanwhile, the rival faction led by Tanimu Turaki has condemned the unsealing, describing it as contemptuous. Its spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, argued that the judgment cited by the police had already been appealed and that all parties were aware of the development.
“By this action, they have tampered with the res, which could render the Court of Appeal judgment nugatory,” Ememobong said.
The development underscores ongoing internal tensions within the PDP, as rival factions continue to assert control over the party’s leadership and assets.
NAN.
