Turaki reclaimed the PDP secretariat in Abuja after a tense confrontation between rival groups.
His team pushed through resistance to restore authority and reinforce the party’s leadership decision.
The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki SAN, has regained full control of the party’s National Secretariat at Wadata Plaza in Abuja after a tense standoff that drew widespread attention on Tuesday.
Turaki moved into the secretariat with top members of the party, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed. Their arrival resulted in the removal of the group loyal to former National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, who had taken over the premises earlier in an attempt to challenge the new leadership.
The takeover happened only days after the PDP National Convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, where Turaki was elected Chairman on November 15, 2025. The same convention approved the expulsion of Anyanwu, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti State governor Ayo Fayose and several others. They were accused of serious acts that party leaders described as harmful to unity and an attempt to disrupt the party’s democratic process.
Despite the expulsion, the affected group refused to leave the secretariat. Turaki’s team arrived with strong determination and moved into the building even after meeting resistance. They forced their way into the National Executive Committee Hall when the entrance was blocked, which led to brief scuffles before order was restored.
People who witnessed the incident said the mood around the secretariat became charged as supporters of the opposing camp confronted security personnel. Individuals loyal to the expelled National Vice Chairman for the North Central zone, Mohammed Abdulrahman, were also seen challenging the entry of Turaki’s team before being overpowered.
Turaki’s group maintained that they were acting strictly under the party’s constitution, which recognizes him as the legally elected Chairman. They insisted that the secretariat must be under the control of those chosen at the convention. After several minutes of tension, they succeeded in clearing out Anyanwu and his associates, bringing an end to the occupation.
