Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised Umar Damagum, the acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), for directing Senator Samuel Anyanwu to resume duties as the party’s National Secretary.

Speaking on Wednesday during the inauguration of interchange bridges in Abuja, Wike said Damagum lacked the authority to issue such an order, insisting that Anyanwu was already carrying out his responsibilities.

“I watched on national television and heard when the acting national chairman of PDP was directing the national secretary to resume. National secretary is not your appointee… You can’t call him to resume because of the illegalities you perpetrated,” Wike stated.

The PDP leadership had recently met with INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu to address the leadership crisis regarding the disputed National Secretary position, contested between Anyanwu and Sunday Udeh-Okoye.

Damagum, speaking earlier at a press briefing attended by Governor Bala Mohammed and Senator Abba Moro, admitted that recognising Anyanwu was a “difficult” decision. However, Wike strongly objected, accusing Damagum of weak leadership.

“You did not show leadership; that is why you are where you are,” Wike said.
“National secretary has been working and does not need anybody to direct him to work.”

He also expressed dismay that the party leadership had to consult INEC on whether to obey a Supreme Court judgment.

“It is unfortunate that the leaders of the party are meeting with INEC to decide whether or not to obey the Supreme Court judgment,” Wike said.
“When you shoot yourself, you say somebody shot you. Continue to shoot yourself; I will not be a party to that.”

Wike’s remarks reflect deepening internal tensions within the PDP as the party continues to grapple with factional disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections.