Nigeria: Thugs Attack PDP Faction Delegates, Journalists After Jonathan's Candidacy Ratification

A faction of Nigeria's Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Kabiru Turaki, faced violence and disruption on Saturday when thugs attacked delegates and journalists. The incident occurred after the faction was denied access to the A-Class Event Centre in Abuja, where they intended to hold a special national convention to ratify former President Goodluck Jonathan as their presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

Armed police officers had previously barricaded the event center and blocked roads, acting on a warning from the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) against providing facilities to unrecognized political party factions. Following the denial of access, Turaki led his supporters to a private apartment to conduct the ratification exercise. Upon returning to the original venue to engage with the police, they were again stopped.

Immediately after Turaki departed, a group of individuals armed with sticks, iron rods, and stones arrived in a van. They proceeded to attack delegates and faction members, even with police officers present. Journalists covering the event were also targeted, with phones and other valuables stolen. Samuel Ogidan, a correspondent for Daily Independent, was assaulted and had his phone taken, prompting other journalists to flee the scene.

The PDP is currently divided into two factions. One is led by Abdulrahman Mohammed and supported by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. This faction is recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and has nominated Sandy Onor as its presidential candidate. The other faction, led by Turaki, has adopted Jonathan as its candidate. While Onor has accepted his nomination, Jonathan has remained silent on his adoption by the rival faction. Turaki stated that his faction would not be intimidated and would focus on winning the 2027 elections.

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