The recently reinstated National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Samuel Anyanwu, has urged party members to prioritize unity and rebuilding the party while dismissing talks of joining any coalition ahead of the 2027 elections.

In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH on Monday, Anyanwu encouraged those engaging in coalition discussions—including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai—to reconsider and instead work toward strengthening the PDP.

PDP Not Part of Any Coalition

Anyanwu, a close ally of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, clarified that the PDP is not involved in any coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

“The PDP is not part of any coalition. We have not been invited to any coalition meetings or discussions. Those advocating for a coalition should join the PDP, not the other way around,” he stated.

His comments follow last week’s coalition announcement by the 2023 presidential candidates, including Atiku, Peter Obi, and El-Rufai, to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Supreme Court Reinstates Anyanwu

Anyanwu’s call for unity comes after a Supreme Court ruling on Friday that reinstated him as PDP National Secretary, overturning a previous Appeal Court decision in December 2024 that had recognized Sunday Ude-Okoye as the legitimate holder of the position.

The court emphasized that disputes over a political party’s leadership are internal matters and should not be adjudicated by the judiciary.

In response to the judgment, the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) reaffirmed that Ude-Okoye’s appointment had been nullified and called for internal mechanisms to resolve future leadership issues.

Anyanwu expressed relief at the ruling, stating, “From the Supreme Court, which is the highest court, I am the National Secretary of the PDP. I hold no grudges against anyone. Now is the time for us to unite and reposition the party.”

Internal Conflicts and Reconciliation Efforts

The PDP has faced significant internal turmoil since the 2023 elections, including disputes over the National Chairman position. Umar Damagum, the Acting National Chairman, has faced criticism since Iyorchia Ayu’s removal.

Anyanwu acknowledged the emotional toll the legal battle caused but emphasized the need for a reconciliation meeting within the NWC to foster unity.

“There is an urgent need for an important NWC meeting where we can face each other, speak the truth, and apologize where necessary,” he said.

Calls for Unity from Party Leaders

PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, echoed Anyanwu’s call for unity, urging all stakeholders, including the Governors Forum and Board of Trustees (BoT), to rally behind the NWC.

“The Supreme Court has ruled. It is time for all of us in the PDP, regardless of our position, to start mending our differences. Reconciliation and healing are now essential,” Osadolor said.

A National Executive Committee (NEC) member, speaking anonymously, warned that continued infighting could further damage the PDP’s public image.

“If we continue to fight like this, the image of the party will suffer. It’s time to let go of grievances and focus on strengthening the party,” the source said.

The Path Forward

Anyanwu and other PDP leaders are now focused on mending internal divisions and rebuilding trust within the party. With the 2027 elections on the horizon, the PDP faces the challenge of unifying its members and consolidating its position as the leading opposition to the ruling APC.