The Samuel Anyanwu faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State has endorsed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as the national leader of the party.
The endorsement was announced during a stakeholders’ meeting in Owerri, convened by the State Chairman, Austin Nwachukwu.
The gathering brought together senior party figures, elected representatives, and key stakeholders from across Imo State.
In his address, Nwachukwu reaffirmed the chapter’s commitment to the PDP’s constitution, internal democratic values, and the guiding principles that have shaped the party over the years. He also noted that the state chapter remains united despite recent national-level tensions.
A central moment at the meeting was the unanimous motion endorsing Wike as national leader. Stakeholders highlighted his longstanding role in strengthening the party, including his contributions to expanding PDP’s influence from four states in 2015 to 16 in subsequent years. They described the FCT minister as a stabilising force vital to the party’s endurance and restructuring.
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The Imo PDP further reiterated its support for Senator Anyanwu, who serves as the National Secretary of the faction. Stakeholders praised his unwavering commitment to building party structures at both state and national levels, describing him as a reliable administrator and distinguished representative of Imo within the PDP hierarchy.
The meeting also voiced confidence in AbdulRahman Mohammed as Acting National Chairman and Senator Maho Ohabunwa as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, stating that their leadership aligns with the ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the party.
Participants dismissed the recent convention held in Ibadan, calling it unlawful. They also applauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for refusing to participate, saying the decision underscored the importance of constitutional order and due process.
Nwachukwu stressed that the Imo PDP remains an “undivided entity” and is committed to unity and discipline as it prepares for upcoming elections. He urged members to stay focused and work collectively to improve the party’s prospects of returning to power in the state.
The PDP crisis escalated further when the Umar Damagum faction expelled Wike, Anyanwu, and former Ekiti governor Ayodele Fayose, among others, for alleged anti-party activities. They also elected former minister Tanimu Turaki at the Ibadan convention.
In retaliation, the faction loyal to Wike expelled Damagum, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
Both factions clashed last week over access to the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.