The protesters—made up mainly of women and youth groups—displayed placards carrying inscriptions such as “No to Turaki” and “Turaki Must Go,” signalling their rejection of the leadership that emerged from Saturday’s controversial national convention. The convention was boycotted by the Wike-led bloc, which described the process as illegitimate.
Tanimu Turaki, a former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, was declared National Chairman after the contentious exercise that has deepened internal division within the opposition party.
Both the Turaki-led camp and the faction loyal to former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike had announced separate National Executive Committee meetings scheduled for Tuesday. However, as early as 9:45 a.m., the Wike-backed group, led by the sacked Acting National Chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed, arrived at the secretariat in a show of dominance.
The faction was accompanied by a large detachment of armed police officers, who took strategic positions around the building and adjoining streets to maintain order and prevent clashes.
As of the time of filing this report, no member of the Turaki-led camp had arrived at the secretariat, leaving the Wike faction firmly in control of the premises.
Further updates are expected.
