They want to silence us — PDP cries out again

DDM News

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned the closure of its national headquarters by authorities of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

This reaction comes following the abrupt sealing of Wadata Plaza in Abuja on Monday, sparking public outcry and political speculation.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that PDP leaders convened an emergency caucus meeting at the Bauchi State Governors’ Lodge in Abuja shortly after the incident.

Addressing journalists, Acting National Chairman Umar Iliya Damagum described the action as a “brazen abuse of power” and a “deliberate affront to Nigeria’s democracy.”

In a defiant tone, Damagum said, “They should come and arrest all of us. We will not take this lightly.”

He alleged that the closure was politically motivated and intended to weaken opposition voices at a crucial time in the country’s democratic process.

The FCTA has claimed that the building was sealed due to unpaid ground rent accumulated over 28 years.

However, PDP leaders believe the explanation is merely a cover for a politically orchestrated crackdown.

“They are attempting to destabilize the opposition ahead of national decisions,” Damagum asserted.

He added, “This is not just about rent. This is a reckless and calculated attempt to silence dissent. It is unacceptable.”

The PDP’s reaction highlights mounting tension between the party and the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike.

Wike, a former PDP governor of Rivers State, has recently been involved in intra-party controversies and has pledged to “fight for justice” within the party.

Analysts say the confrontation between the party leadership and the FCTA could widen internal divisions or trigger legal battles over party property and political rights.

As the headquarters remained sealed, the PDP shifted operations to the Bauchi State Governors’ Lodge for the emergency strategy meeting.

During the session, leaders discussed the legal and political implications of the headquarters’ closure.

A special committee was formed to investigate the matter and report back to the caucus within 24 hours.

“We have adjourned the meeting until 10 a.m. tomorrow,” Damagum said. “The committee will present its findings then.”

He maintained that the party would explore all legal and political means to resist what he described as state-sponsored intimidation.

Party loyalists and observers say this incident could deepen Nigeria’s political tensions and test democratic resilience.

Wadata Plaza, the PDP’s historic national headquarters, has long served as a symbol of the party’s national presence.

Its sealing, amid outstanding rent claims, may have legal basis but is now caught in a wider political drama.

The PDP has vowed not to be cowed by what it sees as an attempt to cripple its activities and distract from national issues.

“This is a coordinated attempt to silence the opposition,” one senior PDP official said off the record.

Opposition parties and civil society groups have expressed concern that the move could set a dangerous precedent.

As of Monday evening, security operatives remained stationed at Wadata Plaza, barring entry to party officials and staff.

The development has attracted reactions across the political spectrum, with many awaiting the PDP’s next steps.

The party is expected to issue a detailed communique after receiving the committee’s report.

With national and internal party tensions escalating, observers warn that the days ahead may further test Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

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