The Nyesom Wike-backed faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has assumed control of the party’s national secretariat in Abuja after the Nigeria Police reopened and handed over the premises in compliance with court orders.

In a statement issued on Saturday, the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led National Working Committee confirmed the takeover, warning that any future attempt to disrupt activities at the secretariat would not be tolerated. The faction praised the police for what it described as professionalism and adherence to the rule of law, saying the move restores constitutional order within the party.

The leadership struggle stems from a prolonged internal crisis that escalated in November when rival factions—one led by Tanimu Turaki and supported by Governors Seyi Makinde and Bala Mohammed, and the other aligned with Wike—clashed over control of the party structure. The dispute was later decided by the Court of Appeal in favour of the Wike camp, which nullified the Ibadan convention backed by the governors.

The Mohammed-led camp also expressed gratitude to Wike, describing the FCT minister’s role as central to stabilising the party during the conflict.

However, the Turaki faction has condemned the police-backed reopening of the secretariat, calling it a contemptuous act. Its spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, argued that the judgment authorising the unsealing is under appeal and accused the police of undermining due process by acting before the appellate court delivers its ruling.

The faction further alleged partisan interference by the police, claiming their actions favour the Wike-backed bloc. Despite its objections, the Turaki camp urged its supporters to remain peaceful while it pursues legal remedies to challenge the takeover.