The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reinstated Samuel Anyanwu as its National Secretary following a meeting with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Tuesday.
The party also suspended its planned National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting originally scheduled for June 30, opting instead for an expanded caucus session.
Acting National Chairman Umar Damagun announced the development at a press briefing in Abuja, attended by PDP Governors Forum Chair Bala Mohammed and former Senate President Bukola Saraki.
“Anyanwu is resuming as National Secretary,” Damagun stated. “Since INEC did not receive a formal notice for the NEC, we’ll hold an extended caucus meeting on June 30 to decide the way forward.”
The decision follows INEC’s refusal to attend the PDP’s 100th NEC meeting, citing a dispute over the office of National Secretary. The commission raised concerns about conflicting signatures and procedural irregularities linked to the leadership tussle.
In December, the Court of Appeal ruled in favour of Sunday Udeh-Okoye, recognizing him as the rightful secretary after the PDP’s South-East leadership nominated him, citing Anyanwu’s 2023 Imo State governorship bid. However, Anyanwu challenged his removal in court and initially secured injunctions to retain his position.
The Court of Appeal later dismissed those injunctions, stating the lower court ruling lacked merit. Despite this, both Udeh-Okoye and Anyanwu continued to claim the office into early 2025.
