The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Anyanwu

  • PDP leadership dispute: Court dismisses Anyanwu’s suit against INEC, others

    PDP leadership dispute: Court dismisses Anyanwu’s suit against INEC, others

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit filed by a former National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Samuel Anyanwu, seeking to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise him as the party’s scribe.

    Justice Mohammed Umar dismissed the suit in a ruling yesterday after the plaintiff’s lawyer, U. C. Njemanze Aku, applied to withdraw it.

    Anyanwu had originally named INEC and a former acting National Chairman of PDP, Umar Damagun, as the defendants in the suit.

    In a ruling on February 28, last year, the court had joined the PDP and other national executive members, including Sunday Udeh-Okoye, Dr. Ali Odefa, and Setonji Koshoedo, as defendants.

    At the mention of the case yesterday, Njemanze Aku told the court that Anyanwu’s tenure as the PDP National Secretary expired last December.

    The lawyer said she felt it was improper for a matter that had been overtaken by events to continue.

    “In the interest of justice, I apply to withdraw this matter to save the time of the court,” he said.

    READ ALSO: Tax reform: Lessons for national health financing

    Responding, lawyer to INEC, Akintayo Balogun, averred that the suit “ought not to have been instituted in the first place”.

    Balogun urged the court to dismiss the suit with a cost of N1 million, a position that lawyers to other defendants agreed with.

    Njemanze-Aku objected to the request for the cost against the plaintiff, arguing that her decision to withdraw the suit was not meant to waste the court’s time.

    Ruling, Justice Umar said: “Since you have joined issues, I am going to dismiss this matter. The matter is hereby dismissed.

    “The delay is not on any of the parties. The situation made it so. For this reason, I award no cost.”

  • Anyanwu-led PDP inaugurates Enugu caretaker executive

    Anyanwu-led PDP inaugurates Enugu caretaker executive

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State has inaugurated its newly constituted caretaker committee approved by the National Working Committee (NWC) led by the Acting National Chairman, Alhaji Abdulraham Mohameed, and National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu.

    The inauguration, held at Okechi Estate Events Centre, opposite ANAMCO, Emene, Enugu, drew a mammoth turnout of party faithful from the state’s 17 local government areas.

    The ceremony signaled what many described as a fresh dawn for the party following months of inactivity and internal lull.

    This was contained in a statement issued by the new caretaker secretary of the state chapter, Hon. Chukwunonye Okereke.

    According to the statement, Barr. Kenneth Igwesi, who inaugurated the committee on behalf of the National Legal Adviser and as directed by Senator Anyanwu, said the new leadership became necessary following the collapse of the former state leadership under Dr. Martin Chukwunweike, who defected to the APC.

    He charged members to adhere strictly to the party’s constitution, the Electoral Act, and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Read Also: Akpabio files fresh N200bn defamation suit against Natasha

    The caretaker committee is chaired by former Igboeze South Local Government chairman, Hon. Vitus Okechi, while Hon. Okereke serves as the State Secretary.

    Speaking during the ceremony, Okechi emphasised unity, inclusion, and the rebirth of the PDP’s winning spirit, expressing confidence that the party was firmly on track to reclaiming its dominance in the state.

    “Enugu State is PDP, and PDP is Enugu State,” he declared, applauding members who remained committed despite recent political turbulence.

    He assured them that their loyalty would be rewarded when the party returns to the Lion Building in 2027, describing the expected victory as fait accompli.

    He added that the party’s mobilisation strategy would be “efficient, smart and relentless.”

    The State Secretary, Hon. Okereke, highlighted the need for inclusivity and the deployment of administrative competence in steering the rejuvenated party to victory.

    He said the repositioned PDP would be driven by the values of integrity, honesty, and appreciation of members.

    Also speaking, the immediate past State Vice Chairman of the party, Ozo Okey Ozoani, commended the NWC for reposing confidence in the new leadership.

    He traced the party’s current challenges to what he described as an “alien leadership disconnected from the true PDP family,” noting that 2027 offered a chance to restore the party’s legacy in Enugu.

    Similarly, Dr. Nnamdi Onyia urged members to remain steadfast, stressing that loyalty and consistency remain key to political reward and collective progress.

    Other dignitaries at the event included Prof. (Mrs.) Iloh, Barr. Celine Ugwu, Barr. Chizoba Ezeagor, Chief Ken Obiora, Chief Chukwujekwu Nebo, and Chief Obiora Ugwu, a former prominent youth leader and Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ugwuanyi.

  • JUST IN: Tension as Anyanwu storms PDP Secretariat

    JUST IN: Tension as Anyanwu storms PDP Secretariat

    There is a tension at the Wadata plaza national Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the Samuel Anyanwu and Taminu Turaki-led factions prepare to hold their separate meetings at the same venue over control of the party. 

    There is a heavy deployment of police, Officers of the Directorate of State Services and other security personnel around the Zone 5 Secretariat with a handful of supporters of the two factions drumming and singing close to the Secretariat. 

    However at the time of the report, some of those invited by the Anyanwu-faction of its NEC meeting had started arriving the Secretariat. 

    Anyanwu himself arrived the Secretariat around 8.50am and went straight to his office. 

    As at 9.27, Kabiru Turaki’s loyalists were yet to arrive the Secretariat but there are rumour that they are on their way to the Secretariat. 

    Read Also: PDP govs split over expulsion of Wike, Fayose, Anyanwu, others

    Anyanwu told reporters he invited the security agents around the Secretariat, adding that it is the usual practice to invite security agents whenever the party is holding a NEC meeting because of the expected turnout. 

    He said:  “I wrote to the security agencies and I NEC on the 14th November informing them of the NEC/BoT meeting scheduled for today. I am the National Secretary of the party and.y tenure runs till December 8.

    Reminded of the plan by the Turaki led group to hold an NWC at the Secretariat, he said We are going our meeting and we do not expect any intruder. He is coming to hold meeting here as what? 

    Details shortly…

  • Anyanwu faction suspends PDP National Convention

    Anyanwu faction suspends PDP National Convention

    The Senator Samuel Anyanwu-faction of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has suspended the November 15 and 16 elective National Convention of the party indefinitely. 

    Acting National Chairman of the faction, Alhaji Abdulrahman Muhammed, said at a briefing that proceeding with the convention will be a violation of the judgement of the Federal High Court, Abuja. 

    Mohammed said even though they are aware of an exparte order by an Ibadan High Court, it does invalidate the judgement since an exparte order cannot over ride a valid judgement. 

    According to him: “The National Leadership of the PDP, under my humble leadership as Acting National Chairman. Alhaji Abdulrahman Muhammed, in collaboration with our National Secretary, Distinguished Senator Samuel Anyanwu, hereby formally informs the Nigerian public that we have received the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the recent judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja, delivered by Honourable Justice Omotosho in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2120/2025. 

    “Furthermore, we are pleased to confirm that our esteemed National Legal Adviser, Ajibade A. (SAN) has provided a thorough legal opinion on the implications of the judgment. 

    “In strict adherence to due process and our commitment to faimess, we have filed an appeal before the Court of Appeal to seek further judicial clarification and interpretation in the overall interest of our party, our members and Nigerian democracy. 

    “Consequently, having filed an appeal and in line with our responsibility to uphold the rule of law and the PDP, we hereby suspend and cancel the proposed Ibadan National Convention pending the decision pf the Court of Appeal. Any continuation with the proposed convention at this time would amount to a violation of the rule of law and shall not be condoned. 

    “The lndependent National Electoral Commission was a party to the suit and is fully aware of the judgement of the Federal High court. Nevertheless, we have dimmed it necessary and responsible to formally communicate our position to the commission. Accordingly, we have notified INEC to suspend the National Convention in strict compliance with the directive contained in the judgement 

    “We are also aware of an ex parte order recently issued by a High Court in Oyo State. While we await the Certrfied True Copy of the said order, we reiterate that an ex parte order cannot override a subsisting judgment of the Federal High Court. We shall continue to act only in accordance with valid judicial authority and the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

    Read Also: Confusion continues in PDP as Damagun writes INEC on suspension of Anyanwu, others

    “As a responsible, law-abiding, and democratic institution, the PDP remains unwavering in its commitment to the rule of law, constitutional governance, and internal party democracy Our actions will continue to be guided by legal advice, by respect for our members, and by our duty to protect the integnty of our party. 

    “We assure our teeming supporters and the general public that every decision we take will be governed by wisdom, justice, legality, and the timeless values that have positioned the PDP as the strongest democratic institution on the African continent.

    “In the coming days, the National Working Committee (NWC) will communicate further decisions and next steps in compliance with our party constitution and the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

    “Let it be restated unequivocally: the PDP remains one united and indivisible family. We are strong. We are focused. We are committed to offering credible leadership, constructive opposition, and principled engagement in defence of Nigeria’s democracy, peace, unity, and prosperity”. 

  • War in PDP as factions suspend Damagum, Anyanwu, others

    War in PDP as factions suspend Damagum, Anyanwu, others

    • Ologunagba group move against Wike’s ally, legal adviser

    • National Secretary announces counter suspension of chairman, spokesman, others

    • Kaduna South Senator Katung dumps party, joins APC

    A fresh wave of suspension and counter suspension erupted in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday in the wake of the directive  of the Federal High Court Abuja  that   the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should disregard  the party’s national convention scheduled for later this month.

    Justice James Omotosho ,in a judgement on Friday ,said the party had failed to meet the requirements for calling a lawful national convention.

    The judgement sparked instant jubilation in the camp of   Federal Capital Territory  (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike ,and despair in the camp of national chairman of the party, Ambassador Umar Damagum and the PDP Governors Forum.

    Both camps soon went into separate meetings on their next line of action.

    By midday yesterday, the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) led by Damagum announced the suspension of National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), Deputy Legal Adviser Okechukwu Osuoha and  National Organising Secretary Umaru Bature for one month.

    News of the suspension was broken by National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba in a statement.

    Ologunagba said the case of the suspended officials had been referred to the National Disciplinary Committee.

    “During this period of the suspension, they cease to function in their respective capacities,” he said.

    He added: “ In the case of the National Secretary, Pursuant to Section 36(2) of our Party Constitution as amended in 2017, the Deputy National Secretary, Hon. Arc. Setonji Koshoedo shall act as the National Secretary. In the case of the National Legal Adviser and the Deputy National Legal Adviser, the National Director of Legal Services is hereby directed to oversee the activities of the Department.”

    Soon after, the Wike camp issued its own suspension order against  National Chairman Damagum, Deputy National Chairman (South) Taofeek Arapaja, National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba and others for  ‘gross misconduct.’

    Senator Anyanwu, speaking at a press conference in Abuja  announced the party’s National Vice Chairman (North Central), Mohammed Abdulrahman, as Acting National Chairman.

    He said  Damagum’s suspension was on account of  incompetence, financial misconduct, and disregard for court judgment.

     He is “suspended for one month and should face the Disciplinary Committee.”

    He said  Ologunagba was suspended  for issuing statements without the party’s approval.

    Also suspended, according to him, were  Deputy National Vice Chairman (South), Taofeek Arapaja,  National Financial Secretary  Daniel Woyenguikoro, National Youth Leader, Sulaiman Kadade, and Deputy National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo.

    All of them will be sent to the Disciplinary Committee to show cause why they should not be expelled,” Anyanwu said.

    Fayose congratulates Abdulrahman

    Former Governor of Ekiti State,  Ayodele Fayose, congratulated  the ‘new Acting National Chairman’ Alhaji Mohammed Abdulrahman.

    Fayose, urged Abdulrahman  to urgently bring peace and unity to the party  which, according to him, is  in urgent need of new direction.

    READ ALSO: Obi Cubana blames solo-ownership culture for African business failures

    Fayose, an ally of Wike, urged him to  “ unite the party and restore confidence in its members.”

    He added:”Most importantly, he should look into the shenanigans and injustice done in states like Ekiti and others with a view to correcting them in accordance with the party constitution and existing court pronouncements.

    “He should also be a team player and ensure the emergence of a new National Working Committee through a valid National Convention, which should be done immediately after outstanding congresses are held in states and zones, and those done against court judgements are revisited.”

    Some neutral party members said yesterday that the actions of the two camps could only damage the party further.

    Citing relevant sections of the PDP constitution, one party member who does not want his name in print, queried the legality of the suspensions as the ‘suspended’ chieftains were not given any opportunity to defend themselves.

    Section  57 of the PDP Constitution stipulates that the party’s Disciplinary Committee “may, after preliminary hearings, suspend a member from the Party for a period not exceeding one month, during which period the member so suspended shall lose his  right to contest any election.

    Sub-section 4 of the provision states further: “Where an allegation is made against a member of the Party, the  Disciplinary Committee shall inform the member in writing of the  allegations made against him and the place and time of hearing the  case against him or her

     “A member who appears before a Disciplinary Committee shall be given  opportunity to present his case orally or in writing either in person or  through a counsel of his choice and shall be allowed to call witnesses.

    Sub-section 6 of the provision states that: “Any decision taken against a member who has not been informed of the  charges against him or has not been given any opportunity of defending  himself shall be null and void.

    Also, sub-section 7 states thus: “Notwithstanding any other provision relating to discipline, no Executive  Committee at any level, except the National Executive Committee, shall  entertain any question of discipline as may relate or concern a member  of the National Executive Committee, Deputy Governors or members of  the National Assembly.”

    A party source said should the Damagum bloc which has the backing of the  PDP Governors’ Forum and other stakeholders succeed in replacing Anyanwu with the  Deputy National Secretary Setonji Koshoedo this time, it will be technically possible for the party to hold  its  national convention once he and Damagum forward a  formal letter to notify INEC of plans for an elective national convention.

    The latest wave of suspension and counter-suspension is similar to the drama that trailed the party’s loss of the 2023 presidential election.

    Between October 10 -11, 2024, two factions in the PDP NWC engaged in  suspension and counter suspension of officials.

    At that time, the then  Acting National Chairman Damagum and the National Secretary, Senator Sam Anyanwu were locked in a faceoff with Ologunagba and National Legal Adviser Ajibade who appeared to lean towards Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara.

     Ologunagba, in an October 10, 2024 statement announced the suspension of Damagum and Anyanwu from all meetings, activities and programs of the NWC pending the conclusion of investigation by the National Disciplinary Committee.

    According to Ologunagba: “The National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP has extensively considered the series of complaints raised against the Acting National Chairman, Amb. Illiya Damagum and National Secretary, Sen. Samuel Anyanwu particularly with regard to the letter addressed by them to the Court of Appeal in Appeal No:CA/PH/307/2024 against the Party’s position in the case involving the 27 former members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who vacated their seats upon decamping from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    “The NWC condemned this anti-party activity of the Acting National Chairman and the National Secretary which is in gross violation of the provisions of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017) and their Oath of Office.

    “Consequently, the NWC, pursuant to Sections 57, 58 and 59 of the PDP Constitution, has suspended Amb. Illiya Damagum and Sen. Samuel Anyanwu as Acting National Chairman and National Secretary of the Party respectively and referred them to the National Disciplinary Committee for further action,” Ologunagba stated.

    Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Abdullahi Ibrahim Manga and the PDP National secretariat’s Director of Publicity, Chinese Nnorom came out with a counter statement the following day to say  Ologunagba and Kamaldeen had been suspended.

    According to Nnorom: “The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) arising from its 593rd Meeting today, Thursday, October 10, 2024, has directed the National Publicity Secretary (NPS), Hon Debo Ologunagba and National Legal Adviser (NLA), Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade, SAN, to step aside, respectively.

    “As a result, the NWC constituted a committee to be chaired by the Deputy National Chairman (South) H.E. Amb. Taofeek Arapaja, to investigate the issues raised against the officers in compliance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Party.

    “Following the NWC’s Decision, it directed their respective deputies (DNPS and DNLA) to assume office in acting capacity with effect from Friday, October 11, 2014, pending the conclusion of investigation by the Committee: the officers are Ibrahim Abdullahi Manga, Esq, Acting National Publicity Secretary and Barr. Okechukwu Osuoha, Acting National Legal Adviser,” she stated.

    Immediately afterwards, Alhaji Abdullahi Ibrahim Manga issued a two-paragraph press statement which he signed as Acting National Publicity Secretary to announce his resumption in place of the ‘suspended  ‘Ologunagba.

    “Arising from its 593rd meeting,10th October,2024,the National Working Committee has suspended the National Publicity Secretary and the National Legal Adviser of the Party,pending the determination of allegations of DISLOYALTY and INSUBORDINATION levelled against the duo

    “In the meantime, the Deputies in the respective DIRECTORATES,Ibrahim Abdullahi and Barr Okechukwu Osuoha, have stepped-in in acting capacity,” he said.

    Gbajabiamila, Sani, Tajudeen receive PDP senators, others into APC

    President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff,Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila,Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and House of Representatives Speaker  Abbas Tajudeen yesterday received no fewer than 10 political heavyweights from the opposition PDP and their supporters in Southern Kaduna into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Gbajabiamila stood in for Tinubu at grand rally held in Kafanchan, headquarters of Jema’a Local Government Area.

    Prominent among the defectors were Senator  Sunday Katung (PDP-Kaduna South), Rep. Daniel Amos (PDP-Jema’a/Sanga Federal Constituency), and Mr Ali Kalat, member representing Jema’a Constituency in the Kaduna State House of Assembly.

    Gbajabiamila said the defections reflected the growing acceptance and goodwill of the APC across Kaduna State and the nation at large.

    He commended Gov. Uba Sani for his exemplary leadership and urged him to sustain efforts toward uniting and strengthening the party in the state.

    In his remarks, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Abbas Tajudeen, described the development as historic, noting that Southern Kaduna had long been regarded as the stronghold of the PDP

    “For decades, they claimed ownership of your loyalty, your dreams, and your destiny. But today, that claim has ended, and the people have reclaimed their power,” Tajudeen said.

    He described the APC as a home of unity, inclusion, and progress and  President Tinubu as a leader with  action who keeps his word and delivers development .

    Also speaking, Sani said the defections signified a new dawn in the politics of Southern Kaduna and indeed Nigeria.

    He reiterated his commitment to governing with fairness and justice to all segments of the state, irrespective of political, ethnic, or religious affiliations.

    Sani added that while elections might divide, governance must unite, stressing that the focus of his administration was on development and service delivery.

    Speaking on behalf of the defectors,  Katung and Amos said their decision to join the APC was inspired by the developmental strides of President Tinubu’s administration in Southern Kaduna.

    They said they consulted widely with their constituents  who gave their blessings to align with the ruling party in order to attract more projects and opportunities to the zone.

    The lawmakers pledged to contribute their experience and influence toward strengthening the APC in Southern Kaduna and beyond.

  • JUST IN: PDP suspends National Secretary Anyanwu, three others for one month

    JUST IN: PDP suspends National Secretary Anyanwu, three others for one month

    The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suspended some key officials for alleged anti-party activities. 

    At its emergency meeting on Saturday, the NWC announced the suspension of the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu; the National Organising Secretary, Umar Nature;  the National Legal Adviser, Kamal Deen Ajibade and the Deputy National Legal Adviser, Barr. Okechukwu Osuoha. 

    The officers were suspended for a period of one month and referred to the National Disciplinary Committee for further action. 

    During the period of the suspension, the affected officers cease to function in their respective capacities. 

    Addressing reporters after an emergency meeting of the NWC at the National Secretariat in Abuja, National Publicity Secretary of the Party, Debo Ologunagba said: “The NWC has reviewed the party’s activities, especially in the recent past and some decisions were taken. You will recall that on August 8th 2025, the party issued a reprimand to members over anti-party activities and from then till now, party reviewed the activites of some members working against the party and the NWC has reached the following decisions today.

    “These anti-party activities as contained in the constitution of the party, vis-à-vis the activities of those individuals,

    “These are what we have identified as majorly constituting the offences under our constitution. Anybody who breaches any party of the constitution or manifesto, or says or does anything under section 58, any member that says or does anything that will bring the party to disrepute, hatred or contempt, disobeys or neglects, carry out unlawful directives for the party or any organ or officer of the party or engages in any conduct likely to cause disaffection among members of the party, or likely to cause disaffection in the conduct of the business of the party. 

    “The NWC considered these and other actions in line with the constitution of the party, and came to the following decisions: The National Legal Adviser, Kamal Ajibade SAN is suspended for 30 days and he is referred to the National Disciplinary Committee of the party. 

    “The Deputy National Legal Adviser, Bar. Okechukwu Osuoha is also suspended for 30 days in line with the constitution and referred to the disciplinary committee as may be necessary. During the period of suspension, they cease to function in the capacity of their respective offices. 

    “The National Organising Secretary, Hon. Umar Bature is suspended for a period of one month and refereed to the national disciplinary committee. 

    “The National Secretary, Sen. Samuel Anyanwu is suspended for one month and referred to the national disciplinary committee. In the case of National Secretary pursuant to section 36(2) of the constitution as amended in 2017, the Deputy National Secretary, Hon. Arch Setonji Koshedo shall act as National Secretary.

    “In the case of the legal adviser and deputy legal adviser, the Director of Legal Services has been empowered and directed has been directed to oversee the department during the period of suspension.”

  • You signed letter to INEC, PDP fires back at Anyanwu

    You signed letter to INEC, PDP fires back at Anyanwu

    The controversy over the authenticity of the letter by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the proposed National Convention persisted yesterday.

    The Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, challenged the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, to prove the allegation that his signature on the letter was forged.

    He told reporters in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), that the national secretary co-signed the letter with National Chairman Ambassador Umar Damagum in the presence of prominent party leaders.

    Ologunagba said Anyanwu signed the letter in the presence of former Senate President Bukola Saraki, former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu and some serving PDP governors.

    He urged the Department of State Services and the Police to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the allegations of forgery levelled against the party by the National Secretary.

    In his petition to the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services and the INEC, Anyanwu alleged that his signature on the August 25, 2025 letter to the Commission on the convention was forged

    But taking exception to the allegation, Ologunagba lamented that it came from Anyanwu 50 days after the letter was submitted to the electoral agency.

    READ ALSO: NLC issues four-week ultimatum to FG over ASUU crisis

    He insisted the letter to the umpire was one of the four letters written and signed on the same day inside the office of the National Chairman and in the presence of PDP governors, some national leaders and members of the National Working Committee (NWC).

    The Publicity Secretary explained that in addition to signing the letter, Anyanwu was appointed as Secretary of the Contact and Mobilisation Sub-committee, which was headed by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri.

    He said Anyanwu was also involved in preparation of the budget for the inaugural meeting, which was submitted to the Committee Chairman.

    Ologunagba displayed several letters and correspondences signed by Anyanwu in preparation for the convention, including a letter on the composition of the National Convention Organising Committee and sub-committees.

    He said after the composition of the sub-committees, Anyanwu also wrote letters to members of the committee, including one Arthur, who is his personal staff and a member of the subcommittee.

    Ologunagba said: “People can have alternative propaganda and twisting of stories. But what you don’t have is alternative to facts. Facts are sacred.

    “Interestingly, the narration is the fact that there have been alleged forgery report to the security agencies, namely the DSS, the police. Well, of course, we expect that it will be investigated. And we expect that they will do a proper investigation.

    “Now, you recall that at the 101 NEC meeting of this party, which Senator Samuel Anyanwu was number four on that attendance register, INEC  was fully represented. NEC approved the 2025 elective national convention schedule of activities and timetable.

    “Under the approved timetable, the elective national convention to elect a new set of national officers of our party will hold on Saturday, 15th to 16th November, 2025 in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital. Consequently, NEC directed the National Chairman, Ambassador Iliya Umar Damagum, and the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, to officially write to inform INEC. That was the meeting of 24th of July.”

    He added: “NEC directed the National Chairman and National Secretary to officially write to inform the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of the time, the venue, and the agenda for the national elective convention in accordance with the requirement of Section 82(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, and part two, of the regulations and guidelines for political parties 2022.

    “Accordingly, NEC also approved the membership composition of the National Convention Committee, which we call the National Convention Organizing Committee, as well as membership composition of the National Convention Zoning Committee, which was approved at the 101 meeting of 24th of July.”

    Ologunagba, a lawyer, said “what is important under the criminal law is that there are personal consequences for people when they deliberately misinform security agencies to go on a wide good chase by spurious and irresponsible reporting that are not correct.”

    The Publicity Secretary alleged that “there is a calculated attempt to derail the party and ensure that the convention is not in place.”

    He said: “It is criminal to make false allegations before security officials and security agencies. I would think they should take it up and our party would be interested in having to get to the end of this matter because forgery is a very serious allegation and if anybody who is involved in it or who is behind stories that are not true with regards to that, they should have their day with the security agencies.”

  • Alleged forgery: Anyanwu signed letter before Govs, Saraki, Aliyu, others – PDP

    Alleged forgery: Anyanwu signed letter before Govs, Saraki, Aliyu, others – PDP

     Tony Akowe, AbujaThe People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has asked the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Police to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the allegation of forgery levelled against it by the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu. 

    The party expressed surprise about the allegation of the National Secretary over 50 days after the letters were signed and delivered to the Independent National Electoral Commission, insisting that Anyanwu actually endorsed the convention and letters he is disowning. 

    National Publicity Secretary of the party, Debo Ologunagba, who addressed journalists on Monday at the party Secretariat, said the letter to the electoral umpire was one of the four letters written and signed on the same day inside the office of the National Chairman and in the presence of PDP Governors, some national leaders and members of the National Working Committee (NWC). 

    He explained in addition to signing the letter, Senator Anyanw was appointed Secretary of the Contact and Mobilisation subcommittee headed by Bayelsa Governor, Douye Siri and actually prepared a budget for the inaugural meeting and submitted same to the Committee Chairman. 

    Ologunagba displayed several letters and correspondences signed by Senator Anyanwu in preparation for the convention, including a letter on the composition of the National Convention Organising Committee and sub committees. 

    He said: “Now, fast forward the 102nd NEC meeting, which held on the 25th of August, 2025. The Chairman and the National Secretary, Senator Anyanwu, wrote letters. That meeting of the 25th of August was preceded by a meeting of Governors, NWC members, leaders of the party, inside this building, inside the office of the National Chairman and every member of the NWC were present.

    “Others at the meeting are Umaru  Fintiri, the Governor of Adamawa State and Senator Bala Muhammad, the Governor of Bauchi state. They were there at the meeting before the NEC meeting, inside the office of the Chairman and Senator Anyanwu was present, the Legal Adviser was present, the National Organising Secretary was present.

    “The Governor of Osun state, Ademola Adeleke, the governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde, the governor of Zamfara state, Dauda Lawal, former Senate President, Senator Bukola Saraki, former Minister for Special Duties, Kabiru Tanimu Taraki (SAN), former Niger state governor Babangida Aliu and all National Working Committee members were present. 

    “At that meeting, four letters were were written and signed in their presence inside the office of the National Chairman and these are the letters, I will identify them.

    “The letter to INEC, signed by Senator Anyanwu and the Chairman. The 101 NEC meeting directed them to issue a letter of notice, conveying time, date, venue, and agenda of the national convention at Ibadan. This letter was written for the elective convention, the date, and of course the venue, which was signed by him. 

    “Another letter that was signed that day, by him and the chairman, was the composition of the elective national convention committee membership. The third letter that was signed at that same meeting, at the same time, before the same gentleman, was notice of repeat Southeast 2025 Zonal Congresses of People’s Democratic Party. That letter was signed by him and the chairman. 

    “The last letter was notice of repeat congresses in Anambra and Ebony State. So these four letters were signed at the same time, at the same venue, before these gentleman.

    “One of the subcommittees, the contact and mobilization committee, as proposed and approved by NEC was chaired by Bayelsa state Duoye Diri, with Senator Aba Moro, Senate minority leader as Deputy while the Secretary is Senator Samuel Anyanwu the National Secretary. 

    “He went ahead and started work as subcommittee secretary of the Contact and Mobilization Committee of the convention, He participated in the process of setting up the convention and sub committees. 

    “Now, to show that he started working on that, there was a budget that was presented by him. The budget was sent to the Chairman of the Contact and Mobilization Committee.

    “He had a budget prepared by him, under his signature and it says: ‘this is to formally present to his excellency, the proposed budget for contact and mobilization subcommittee’s inaugural meeting for your consideration and approvals towards the national convention. Here is his budget(displaying a document). 

    “Now, in foregrounds of that position, he wrote letters to members of the subcommittee. These are his letters (displaying more documents). Now, one of these people he wrote letters to is one Honorable Arthur, who is his personal staff. He’s a member of that committee. He sent a letter to him which was duly acknowledged by that staff of his”.

     Displaying more letters, Olugunagba said: “These are letters signed by him, of the membership of the contact and mobilization subcommittee of the national convention organizing committee. These are the documents. And that’s why I said to you, you can have alternative propaganda, but you don’t have alternative facts.

    “So, these are the facts as they are today. Curiously, today is 20th of October, right? Nine or 10 days shy of 60 days. And you suddenly woke up and say, oh, that was forged. When this acknowledgement came, the party received the acknowledgement. 

    “The NWC is aware of this acknowledgement. So at what point does that become a forged document? 50 odd days after the letter was signed? I mean, you can understand this. This is why we said some of these needs to be interrogated.”

    Speaking further, he said: “What is important under the criminal law is that there are personal consequences for people when they deliberately misinform security agencies to go on a wide good chase by spurious and sometimes, if I will say that, irresponsible reporting that are not correct. But again, we leave that within them to investigate and we welcome the investigation.

    “So, he who alleges must prove. But you look at the jigsaw, look at the puzzle, four letters were signed at the same time. And then, more than almost two months ago, and one of them suddenly became forged.

    “Beyond this, there is a calculated attempt to derail the party and ensure that the convention is not in place. But again, this is falling flat on the face because it’s untrue. At best, it’s a lie.

    “It is criminal to make false allegations before security officials and security agencies. I would think they should take it up and our party would be interested in having to get to the end of this matter because forgery is a very serious allegation and if anybody who is involved in it or who is behind stories that are not true with regards to that, they should have their day with the security agencies.”

  • PDP convention: Anyanwu protests forgery in letter to INEC

    PDP convention: Anyanwu protests forgery in letter to INEC

    • National secretary seeks probe of suspected cloning
    • Battle rages in NWC over legal adviser

    A forgery allegation raised by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, against the party leadership has deepened the crisis ravaging the main opposition party ahead of its November 15 convention in Ibadan.

    The National Secretary claimed that a letter from the party on the proposed National Convention to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which bore his signature, was fake.

    In a petition to the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services and the INEC, Anyanwu alleged that his signature on the August 25, 2025, letter to the Commission on the convention was forged.

    The convention is currently a subject of litigation at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    The party’s National Working Committee (NWC) is divided.

    No fewer than 14 members have signed a letter calling for the removal of the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade.

    Last week, Ajibade clashed in court with the National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, in the presence of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, over legal representation.

    It was during the resumed hearing in a case instituted by four state chapter chairmen against the convention.

    Although Damagum had briefed Chief Chris Uche (SAN) to appear for the party, Ajibade disagreed.

    He said that, as the National Legal Adviser, assigning a lawyer to represent the party was his responsibility.

    Controversy over forged letter

    Anyanwu claimed that a letter from the party leadership, purportedly signed by Damagum and him, which was received by the INEC on August 29, should be investigated.

    Party sources said former Senate President Bukola Saraki had led a delegation that pleaded with Anyanwu to sign the letter after the last National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.

    But Anyanwu, who denied signing the letter, accused some party officials of forging his signature.

    He described the action as criminal that should be investigated.

    Read Also: W’Cup 2026: Toro hails NFF, stakeholders for Super Eagles’   playoff spot

    He stated in his petition dated October 15 that he never signed the August 25 letter to INEC notifying the commission about the National Convention.

    In the petition titled: “Petition against forgery and cloning of my signature,” Anyanwu described the forgery as “shocking and criminal,” insisting that the signed document was fabricated without his consent.

    The letter reads in part: “My attention has been drawn to an official letter to INEC, dated August 25, 2025, purportedly signed by me.

    “Regrettably, the quoted letter was never signed, authorised, or known to me.

    “It is shocking to have a forged or cloned version of my signature on such a document.”

    Anyanwu urged the security agencies to “commence immediate investigation and prosecute those involved”.

    He alleged that some PDP officials had worked “in collaboration with elements within INEC,” to carry out the act.

    Anyanwu said if allowed to stand, the forgery would undermine the integrity of the electoral process and the party’s internal democracy.

    Rift over proposed convention

    According to party sources, the ongoing crisis is the manifestation of the deep-seated acrimony between the camp of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and the PDP Governors’ Forum.

    Although the governors have begun preparations for the convention, plaintiffs in the case before the court have accused the NWC of violating the party’s constitution and internal guidelines.

    Justice James Omotosho, who adjourned the case till today, however, asked parties in the suit not to do anything that would undermine the case.

    The NWC was polarised by the disagreement between two legal luminaries – Chief Uche and Ajibade – who both claimed to represent the PDP in court.

    Justice Omotosho asked the two lawyers to provide documentary evidence of their authorisation.

    He directed all parties to exchange the documents they filed.

    Ajibade: I remain Legal Adviser

    Ajibade dismissed his purported removal, saying that only a national convention has the power to sack him from office.

    He said: “I remain the authentic National Legal Adviser of the PDP,” adding that his removal was “an illegal and politically motivated attempt to hijack the party’s legal machinery.”

  • PDP crisis deepens as Anyanwu alleges signature forged

    PDP crisis deepens as Anyanwu alleges signature forged

    The crisis rocking the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) appeared not to be abating with the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu accusing the party leadership of forgery. 

    The Nation also gathered that about 14 members of the National Working Committee(NWC) has signed a letter removing the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade. 

    Anyanwu, it was gathered, has petitioned the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) alleging that his signature on the August 25, 2025 letter to INEC on the November 15 and 16 elective national Convention in Ibadan was forged. 

    The letter to the Commission received on 29th of August was signed by Amb. Umar Damagun as Acting National Chairman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary. 

    The Nation gathered that former Senate President, Bukola Saraki led a delegation that pleaded with Anyanwu to sign the letter after the last National Executive Committee meeting of the party. 

    But Anyanwu denied signing the letter accusing some officials of the party of forging his signature, an action he described as criminal

    His petition to the three agencies of government is dated October 15 alleging that he never signed the August 25 letter to INEC notifying the commission of the party’s upcoming National Convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025.

    The Nation gathered that Anyanwu’s petition titled “Petition Against Forgery and Cloning of My Signature,” described the discovery as “shocking and criminal,” insisting that the signed document was fabricated without his consent

    Read Also:Court opens trial in Senator Anyanwu’s N550m defamation suit against Ohakim

    The letter reads in part: “My attention has been drawn to an official letter to INEC, dated August 25, 2025, purportedly signed by me. Regrettably, the quoted letter was never signed, authorised, or known to me. It is shocking to have a forged or cloned version of my signature on such a document”.

    The PDP scribe, who is said to be out of the country at the moment, asked the agencies to immediately “commence immediate investigation and prosecute those involved”.

    He alleged that some PDP officials were working “in collaboration with elements within INEC,” to carry out the act and that such behaviour, if allowed will undermines the integrity of the electoral process and the party’s internal democracy.

    The allegations is coming as concerns mount over whether or not the Ibadan National Convention will go ahead as some members work to truncate the convention while PDP Governors and other members are working round the clock to ensure the smooth conduct of the exercise. 

    Some Members of the party are in court seeking to halt the convention while accusing the National Working Committee (NWC) of violating the party’s constitution and internal guidelines.

    Justice James Omotosho has however asked, parties in the suit not to do anything that will undermine the case before, while adjourning the case to Monday, October 20 for substantive hearing after a heated disagreement between two Senior Advocates; Chief Chris Uche and Kamaldeen Ajibade both claiming to represent the PDP in court.

    The Nation also gathered while justice Omotosho has asked the two lawyers to provide documentary evidence of their authorisation and directed all parties to exchange court documents, 14 members of the NWC signed letter authorising Chief Uche as a replacement for Ajibade. 

    The Nation was informed by those privy to the workings of the party that the decision has further exposed the widening gulf within the top hierarchy.

     Ajibade however dismissed his purported removal, maintaining that only a national convention has the power to sack him from office.

    “I remain the authentic National Legal Adviser of the PDP,” he said, adding that the move as “an illegal and politically motivated attempt to hijack the party’s legal machinery.”

    National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba could not be reached for comment as of the time of filing this report.