By Deborah Nnamdi
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally reinstated Samuel Anyanwu as the party’s National Secretary, bringing an end to months of internal disputes and uncertainty over leadership.
Announcing the decision at a press conference on Wednesday, PDP Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum confirmed that Anyanwu would resume his duties. He emphasized that the move reflects the NWC’s commitment to upholding party unity and adhering to the rule of law.
Anyanwu, a former senator representing Imo East, was originally elected as National Secretary during the PDP’s 2021 National Convention. However, his position became a source of contention in 2023 when he emerged as the party’s gubernatorial candidate for the Imo State election.
His candidacy sparked internal disagreements, with some party factions arguing that by contesting an elective office, Anyanwu had effectively relinquished his national role—citing constitutional provisions that prohibit dual office holding within the party.
The situation led to legal battles and competing claims for the secretary position, including efforts by some groups to appoint an acting replacement.
Following the conclusion of the 2023 Imo governorship election—where Anyanwu lost to incumbent APC Governor Hope Uzodinma—his supporters began pushing for his reinstatement. After extensive consultations and a legal review, the NWC has now resolved the matter in his favor.
This decision is seen as a strategic step to restore stability to the party’s leadership ahead of future contests, particularly the 2027 general elections. It also marks a broader effort by the NWC to mend internal divisions and reassert the PDP’s role as Nigeria’s leading opposition party.
