The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has rejected allegations of signature forgery made by its National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu. The committee is calling for an investigation by the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant agencies into the matter.
The NWC asserts that Anyanwu personally signed the letter to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding the party’s upcoming national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, addressed the media in Abuja, emphasizing that Anyanwu had signed multiple official letters, including the one notifying INEC of the convention.
Ologunagba stated, “People can twist stories, but there is no alternative to facts.” He noted that the alleged forgery has been reported to security agencies and expressed the expectation of a thorough investigation, highlighting that forgery is a serious offense.
During a recent PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, Anyanwu was present and listed as number four on the attendance register, further asserting the legitimacy of the convention notification. He pointed out that the NEC had approved the convention timetable and directed both the acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, and Anyanwu to notify INEC in accordance with the Electoral Act.
Ologunagba recalled that the letters were signed in the presence of prominent party figures, including Governors Ahmadu Fintiri, Bala Mohammed, Seyi Makinde, and others. He questioned the timing of Anyanwu’s forgery claims, noting that he had also acted on those letters as part of his responsibilities.
The controversy has heightened tensions within the PDP as it gears up for its national convention. Discontent persists among loyalists of Minister Nyesom Wike, who are dissatisfied with the leadership of acting National Chairman Damagum. Ongoing disputes over party structure control and micro-zoning arrangements have added to the internal strife.
Legal challenges have also emerged, with some party chairmen filing a suit against the Damagum-led NWC for alleged constitutional violations. As the party navigates these challenges, the uncertainty surrounding the convention looms, with fears that internal conflicts and legal disputes may jeopardize preparations for the leadership transition.
