The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially affirmed Sunday Ude-Okoye, a former National Youth Leader, as the party’s National Secretary.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the NWC confirmed that its decision aligns with the judgment issued by the Court of Appeal. The NWC emphasized its obligation to comply with the court’s ruling, stating that it has begun the process of notifying the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant bodies for formal recognition of Ude-Okoye’s appointment.
The statement read in part: “The NWC of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at its meeting today, Wednesday, February 12, 2025, thoroughly reviewed the memo dated February 11, 2025, presented by the Acting National Chairman regarding the issue of the National Secretary.
The NWC carefully examined the attached documents, including the declaratory judgment of the High Court of Enugu, the ruling of the Court of Appeal in Enugu, which declared Rt. Hon. S.K.E. Udeh-Okoye as the National Secretary of the PDP, and the legal opinions provided by Dr. Kabiru T. Turaki SAN and the National Legal Adviser of the PDP.
“After comprehensive review, the NWC overwhelmingly recognizes, acknowledges, and confirms Rt. Hon. S.K.E. Udeh-Okoye as the substantive National Secretary of the PDP, fully complying with and obeying the judgment of the Court of Appeal, recognizing that no other judgment or order from a superior court exists.”
The NWC also expressed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the PDP, praising its leaders, members, and stakeholders for their loyalty, respect for the rule of law, and unwavering support during this period. The party reassured its supporters of its continued dedication to its Constitution, the rule of law, and the vision of stability, growth, democracy, and the well-being of Nigerians.
The PDP has faced significant internal challenges since the 2023 elections, resulting in instability and division within the party. Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, has faced scrutiny following his appointment after the resignation of Iyorchia Ayu. Tensions surrounding the National Secretary position escalated when the South East nominated Ude-Okoye to replace Anyanwu, who had been selected as the Imo governorship candidate.
On December 20, 2024, the Court of Appeal ruled in Ude-Okoye’s favor, but disputes persisted. On January 28, supporters of Anyanwu forcibly removed Ude-Okoye from a Board of Trustees (BoT) meeting, which prompted calls for intervention. On January 31, PDP governors, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, endorsed the court’s decision in Asaba, Delta State, officially recognizing Ude-Okoye as the rightful National Secretary.
Despite this, Anyanwu rejected the outcome and petitioned the IGP, Supreme Court, and Appeal Court, accusing the governors of deepening the crisis. On Wednesday, the BoT, under the leadership of former Senate President Adolphus Wabara, reaffirmed Ude-Okoye’s legitimacy as National Secretary after reviewing the case. Subsequently, Damagum issued a memo on February 6, seeking guidance from the PDP National Legal Adviser on how to proceed with the Governors’ and BoT’s directive.
