Razor wire and riot trucks: Security shuts PDP office after factional showdown

Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, cordoned off the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national secretariat, Wadata Plaza, in Abuja, using coils of barbed and razor wire.

All entry and exit points to the complex were shut, with police patrol vans and trucks positioned to block access routes. The development comes less than 24 hours after violent clashes broke out between two opposing factions within the party.

The heavily deployed razor wire sealed off the main gates and surrounding access roads, effectively suspending all political and administrative activities at the headquarters. Officers were stationed at key locations around the building, denying entry to staff, party officials, and visitors.

A riot control vehicle was also positioned near the secretariat, while additional security forces maintained watch around the perimeter.

Tuesday’s confrontation involved loyalists of the newly elected National Chairman, Taminu Turaki, and supporters of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. Both groups had planned parallel meetings at the secretariat, sparking tension that intensified with the arrival of key political figures, including Wike, suspended National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, Turaki, as well as Governors Bala Mohammed (Bauchi) and Seyi Makinde (Oyo).

Police officers eventually resorted to firing tear gas to disperse the rival groups and restore calm to the area.