Tension erupted on Monday at the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja following attempts by rival factions to hold parallel meetings.
Both the National Working Committee (NWC) elected in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, and the faction loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, had scheduled separate meetings for the day.
Samuel Anyanwu, National Secretary of the pro-Wike faction, arrived at the Wadata Plaza early with some members of his group. Shortly after, members of the Taminu Turaki-led faction also arrived but were denied entry into the premises.
Despite the resistance, two governors managed to force their way into the building. However, as other members of the Turaki faction attempted to follow, security operatives fired gunshots into the air and released teargas to disperse the crowd.
The development caused panic as people scampered for safety.
Speaking to journalists in his office before the confrontation, Anyanwu described the heavy security presence as routine and aimed at preventing a breakdown of law and order.
He added that his faction was fully prepared for the meetings of the Board of Trustees (BoT) and the National Executive Committee (NEC).
