The Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed a suit filed by Senator Samuel Anyanwu. He sought recognition as the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party. This decision came on January 20, 2026.
Additionally, the ruling marked the end of a prolonged crisis within the PDP. Anyanwu’s tenure expired in December 2025. As a result, the court found the matter academic.
Background of the PDP Leadership Crisis
The crisis started when Anyanwu left his position to run for Imo State governor in 2023. He lost the election. Afterward, he tried to reclaim the secretary role.
Meanwhile Sunday Udeh-Okoye emerged as a rival for the post. Courts initially removed Anyanwu but the Supreme Court reinstated him in March 2025. However factions continued to clash over leadership.
This internal strife weakened the party’s unity. Anyanwu filed a fresh suit to enforce his position. He aimed to resolve ongoing disputes.
Details of the Legal Suit
Anyanwu sued the Independent National Electoral Commission as the first defendant. He also named Umar Damagun, former acting PDP chairman, as the second defendant.
Furthermore, the court joined the PDP and Udeh-Okoye as additional defendants. Dr. Ali Odela and Setonji Koshoedo became the fifth and sixth defendants. The suit carried the mark FHC/ABJ/CS/254/2025.
Anyanwu requested injunctions against INEC and Damagun. He wanted to prevent them from acting on unsigned correspondences. In November 2025, the court allowed him to amend his summons.
Court Proceedings and Reasons for Dismissal
Justice Mohammed Umar presided over the case. During the hearing, Anyanwu’s lawyer informed the court about the expired tenure.
Moreover the lawyer applied to withdraw the suit. He cited events overtaking the matter. Defendants’ lawyers pushed for dismissal with costs. However Justice Umar dismissed the suit without costs. He noted no party caused delays. The situation itself led to this outcome.
Implications for the PDP and Future Steps
This dismissal resolves the legal battle over the secretary position. It allows the PDP to focus on rebuilding unity. Moreover the party can now address broader challenges. Factions may reconcile for stronger opposition. Analysts predict smoother operations ahead.
In conclusion, the ruling emphasizes timely resolutions in political disputes. It prevents prolonged court involvement. The PDP must prioritize internal harmony moving forward.
