APC Seizes PDP Secretariat in Ongoing Power Struggle Over Ownership
The ongoing power struggle between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) escalated on Thursday when APC officials seized control of the PDP secretariat located at No. 59 Airport Road. The APC claims ownership of the building, asserting that it was unlawfully taken over by former Governor Godwin Obaseki when he switched allegiance from the APC to the PDP.
According to Vanguard reports, this incident follows a series of events after the September 21, 2024, governorship election, during which the PDP accused APC loyalists of attacking the secretariat and vandalizing its property. However, the takeover on Thursday was executed by APC officials, led by Acting State Chairman Jarret Tenebe, who entered the premises with armed police support and evicted all occupants, including Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, the State Caretaker Chairman of the PDP, along with workers and security personnel.
During the takeover, the APC members dismantled a large PDP banner and accessed various offices, including the conference hall, where Tenebe addressed the media. He announced plans to repaint the building and replace its flags with those of the APC.
Tenebe explained that the APC had previously made efforts to extend the lease on the building, which had historically served as its office. He claimed that after Obaseki's defection to the PDP, the APC was forcibly removed from the premises, with their properties destroyed and vehicles taken. Despite complaints to the Inspector General of Police, access to the secretariat was denied due to alleged collusion between the local police and the former governor.
Tenebe emphasized his commitment to reclaiming the state for the APC and restoring its properties, highlighting the recent election victory of Senator Monday Okpebholo as a step toward fulfilling his promises to party members.