PDP Crisis: Anyanwu Stands Firm, Dismisses Governors’ Forum’s Endorsement

PDP National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, has dismissed the PDP Governors’ Forum’s endorsement of his rival, stating that the forum has no authority over party leadership decisions.

The ongoing leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken another turn, as the party’s National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, remains resolute despite the PDP Governors’ Forum endorsing his rival. Anyanwu has dismissed the forum’s decision, insisting that he remains the legitimate National Secretary of the party.

Governors’ Forum Not a Party Organ – Anyanwu

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Vanguard on Friday night, Anyanwu reiterated that the PDP Governors’ Forum has no constitutional authority over party leadership decisions.

“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. One fact remains: I am the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party.”

He emphasized that the Governors’ Forum is merely one of many pressure groups within the PDP and should not be mistaken for a governing body within the party’s structure.

Political Motivations Behind the Endorsement

According to Anyanwu, the endorsement of his rival might have been influenced by external political interests, particularly that of Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State. He suggested that the decision could have been made to appease certain factions within the party.

“Even the communique they issued is adversarial. There’s a likelihood that they did what they did to satisfy Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State.”

Legal Standing and INEC Recognition

Anyanwu maintained that the judicial system remains the ultimate authority in determining his position. He cited the Appeal Court’s ruling, which granted a stay of execution on an earlier judgment, as proof that he remains in office.

“The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and our courts remain supreme in such matters.”

He further stated that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) only recognizes him as the PDP’s National Secretary, dismissing any attempts to replace him.

“I’m complying with the court order, and in case they are not aware, INEC will not recognize any other person besides me as PDP National Secretary.”

Conclusion

With the PDP’s internal crisis deepening, Senator Samuel Anyanwu continues to stand his ground against the PDP Governors’ Forum. His insistence on legal backing and INEC’s recognition underscores the complexities within the party’s leadership struggle. As events unfold, it remains to be seen how the situation will be resolved within the party’s legal and political framework.