The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has thrown its weight behind Ude Okoye as the party’s National Secretary, effectively sidelining Senator Samuel Anyanwu.
The decision was reached during a meeting held in Asaba, Delta State, with key party leaders and stakeholders in attendance.
The endorsement is seen as a major move to realign the party’s leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The decision, however, has sparked controversy within the PDP, as Anyanwu, the incumbent National Secretary, has rejected the forum’s stance.
Speaking late on Friday, Anyanwu dismissed the communique issued by the Governors’ Forum, insisting that it has no authority to dictate the party’s internal affairs.
“First and foremost, the PDP Governors’ Forum is not an organ of our party. So, I’m unperturbed by the communique they issued after their meeting,” he stated.
Anyanwu also criticized Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, suggesting that his influence played a role in the Governors’ Forum’s decision.
He described the forum’s resolution as “adversity” and reaffirmed his position as the legitimate National Secretary of the PDP.
“The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the courts hold ultimate authority in such matters, not the Governors’ Forum,” he argued.
The senator pointed to a recent order by the Court of Appeal that stayed the execution of an earlier judgment, which he claims supports his continued role in the party’s leadership.
“The Appeal Court gave an order for a stay of execution of an earlier judgment, and the court’s current position is clearly in my favour. There is absolutely nothing to worry about,” Anyanwu said.
Anyanwu emphasized that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognizes him as the party’s National Secretary. He claimed that any attempt to install someone else in his position would be futile.
“I’m complying with this court order, and in case they are not aware, INEC will not recognize any other person besides me as PDP National Secretary,” he stated.
The PDP Governors’ Forum, on the other hand, has stood by its decision to back Ude Okoye, emphasizing the need for a unified and strategic leadership to strengthen the party. This clash underscores deepening divisions within the PDP, raising questions about its ability to maintain cohesion as it prepares for future electoral battles.
