The ongoing internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken an intriguing turn, with the Wike-backed faction dismissing claims of Senator Samuel Anyanwu's suspension. In a recent statement, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, under the leadership of Abdurahman Mohammed, has shed light on the situation, offering a detailed explanation that challenges the narrative surrounding Anyanwu's appeal.
The PDP, a party grappling with prolonged internal divisions, has seen its factions led by Tanimu Turaki and Abdurahman Mohammed vie for control. The Turaki faction, supported by Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, has been actively pursuing legal avenues, including a petition to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) seeking the derecognition of the Mohammed/Anyanwu faction. This legal battle has sparked mixed reactions from supporters across both factions.
However, Mohammed's statement reveals a different perspective. He clarifies that the Tom Ikimi Disciplinary Committee, which recommended a suspension, never had the authority to enforce it. The recommendation was not reviewed, adopted, or ratified by the National Working Committee or the National Executive Committee, rendering it non-binding. This means that no valid suspension ever existed.
The suit filed by Anyanwu at the FCT High Court in Abuja was aimed at challenging the competence and proceedings of the Disciplinary Committee. Mohammed emphasizes that the committee's recommendation was promptly discarded by the party's leadership due to a violation of the party's Constitution. As a result, there was never a valid or effective suspension.
The court, in its ruling, dismissed the suit for lacking jurisdiction, asserting that disciplinary issues are internal party matters. This decision has significant implications, as it invalidates the appeal filed by Anyanwu, which was based on the High Court's judgment. Mohammed suggests that the appeal is now moot, and the party urges the public to disregard the misleading reports.
The PDP's leadership, as outlined by Mohammed, has been proactive in addressing the crisis. The Abuja National Convention, held in March 2026, was conducted with legal backing and monitored by INEC, reinforcing the party's authority. Additionally, the Federal High Court in Ibadan had previously upheld the National Caretaker Committee's composition, further solidifying the party's legitimacy.
In conclusion, the Wike-backed faction's response to the Anyanwu suspension claims highlights the complexities of internal party politics. The PDP's leadership, as represented by Mohammed, has taken a stance that emphasizes the absence of a valid suspension and the party's commitment to addressing the crisis through legal and democratic means. This development underscores the ongoing power struggle within the PDP and the importance of clarity in party governance.
