Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
The Court of Appeal sitting in Enugu has delivered a landmark judgment, removing Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the National Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). The ruling has officially affirmed Rt. Hon. Ude Okoye as the substantive National Secretary of the party, bringing a decisive turn to the months-long leadership crisis.
Truth Live News gathered that the appellate court upheld the earlier judgment of the Enugu High Court, which declared that Samuel Anyanwu had automatically vacated his position as National Secretary upon tendering his resignation to contest the Imo State governorship election. According to the court, Anyanwu’s attempt to retain the position contravened the provisions of the PDP constitution.
The court’s decision highlighted a significant constitutional breach, asserting that once Anyanwu resigned, his claim to the office became void. The judgment is seen as a critical move to restore order within the PDP’s leadership structure.
This legal victory for Ude Okoye follows a series of intense internal disputes within the PDP:
October 24, 2023, an Enugu High Court ordered the PDP to replace Anyanwu as National Secretary, citing his resignation to pursue the governorship race.
January 20, 2024, the party faced mounting internal tensions as the leadership tussle escalated.
February 20, 2024, the South East PDP demanded formal recognition of Ude Okoye as the legitimate National Secretary, warning of a showdown with the National Working Committee.
Despite these directives, Anyanwu remained adamant, further polarizing the party leadership and casting a shadow over its internal democratic processes.
The Opposition Lawmakers Coalition has welcomed the judgment, calling it a victory for democracy and constitutional integrity. In a statement, the coalition lauded the court for upholding the rule of law, expressing confidence in Ude Okoye’s ability to steer the party with renewed focus and stability.
“The PDP is at a critical juncture, and this judgment paves the way for unity and progress,” the coalition stated, adding that Okoye’s leadership marks a turning point for the party as it prepares for upcoming elections.
The controversy surrounding Samuel Anyanwu began when he emerged as the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate for the Imo State election while still holding the position of National Secretary. His refusal to relinquish the office sparked widespread criticism, with many party stakeholders accusing him of undermining party unity for personal ambition.
This legal ruling effectively ends his contentious tenure, leaving the PDP with a chance to stabilize its leadership and focus on its political agenda.
With Rt. Hon. Ude Okoye now confirmed as National Secretary, the PDP must address lingering divisions within its ranks. Analysts believe this judgment sends a strong message about the importance of adhering to constitutional provisions and respecting internal party rules.
The coming weeks will reveal whether the party can capitalize on this decision to foster cohesion or if new challenges will emerge. For now, the spotlight is on Ude Okoye as he assumes office amid high expectations to lead the PDP into a new era.