PDP Crisis Deepens as National Secretary Anyanwu Slams Chairman Damagum Over ‘Unconstitutional Acts’
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
A fresh leadership storm is rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as its National Secretary, Senator Samuel N. Anyanwu, has openly challenged the authority of the party’s National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum, accusing him of breaching the party’s constitution and overstepping his powers.
‘You Have Violated the Constitution’ — Anyanwu
In a strongly worded letter dated 1 October 2025 and made available to journalists, Anyanwu outrightly rejected the controversial dissolution of the Akwa Ibom and Cross River State working committees. He branded the move as “illegal, provocative and grossly unacceptable,” insisting that the resolutions allegedly reached at the 30 September National Working Committee (NWC) meeting were null and void.
Citing Section 36 (1) (b) and (e) of the PDP Constitution (2017 as amended), the National Secretary reminded Damagum that it is solely his office that holds the responsibility of convening meetings of critical party organs such as the National Convention, the National Executive Committee (NEC), the National Caucus, and the NWC.
“You should be aware that any action or decisions purportedly reached by an illegally constituted NWC is null and void and of no effect,” he wrote.
Controversial Dissolution Sparks Tension
The internal rift was triggered by a press release issued by PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, announcing the dissolution of the Akwa Ibom and Cross River State working committees and their replacement with caretaker committees.
But Senator Anyanwu swiftly disowned the decision, stressing that no valid NWC meeting had been convened by his office. According to him, the process violated the constitution and undermined the duties of the National Secretary.
“The decision to undermine the duties of my office as provided by the party constitution is provocative and grossly unacceptable by me,” he added.
‘Retrace Your Steps’ — Warning to Damagum
In a sharp rebuke, Anyanwu urged the National Chairman and members of the NWC to respect due process and retrace their steps in order to safeguard the unity of the PDP.
“It is high time you retraced your steps and conduct yourself and the affairs of our party in strict compliance with the PDP constitution 2017 as amended. A stitch in time saves nine,” he warned.
Implications for PDP Ahead of 2027
This public confrontation between two of PDP’s top officers exposes deepening cracks in the party’s national leadership at a crucial period. Akahi News gathered that insiders fear the clash, if unresolved, could weaken the opposition’s ability to reposition itself ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Analysts also caution that persistent internal wrangling may embolden rival parties while distracting the PDP from uniting its base and strategising for national relevance.
🎓 Attend 2026 JAMB, Post-UTME, WAEC, and NECO GCE Tutorials
Get fully prepared with expert tutors, comprehensive study materials, and personalised academic guidance at Akahi Tutors.
📍 Located at 67, Oduduwa College Road, Off Sabo Junction, Ile-Ife.
📞 Call: 08038644328
for enrollment and accommodation reservation.
Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org
