INEC confirms Anyanwu’s removal, recognizes Koshoedo as PDP Acting National Secretary – Report
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially confirmed the removal of Senator Samuel Anyanwu from his role as the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), according to Badagry Today referencing Leadership Newspaper.
This confirmation comes following formal communication from the party’s acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, and the newly appointed acting National Secretary, Arc. Setonji Koshoedo.
The leadership change is taking place against the backdrop of ongoing internal disputes within the PDP.
INEC also acknowledged the submission of documentation for the party’s candidates in the upcoming Anambra State governorship election.
The documents, jointly signed by Damagum and Koshoedo, listed Ezenwafor Jude C. as the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate, with Hon. Okeke Francis Chukwudi as his running mate.
The details were outlined in a letter dated May 7, 2025, and reflect broader developments in the party’s leadership structure.
Prior to that, on May 5, the PDP had informed INEC of Koshoedo’s appointment, following a resolution made during the party’s 600th National Working Committee (NWC) meeting held on April 29.
The party requested INEC to update its records accordingly and support Koshoedo in fulfilling his responsibilities.
Meanwhile, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, spokesperson for the coalition of opposition lawmakers, welcomed INEC’s recognition of Anyanwu’s removal.
He also raised concerns about a reported attempt by Damagum to send a contradictory letter to INEC, which he warned could undermine Koshoedo’s position and disrupt the upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting set for May 27.
Ugochinyere affirmed that the leadership changes were legitimate and properly executed, urging stakeholders to resist any attempts to reverse the process.
He commended the PDP’s NWC, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, and Koshoedo for safeguarding the party against internal sabotage.
He further called for the expulsion of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Senator Anyanwu, accusing both of actions detrimental to the PDP’s unity and progress.
According to him, their removal is vital for the party’s survival.
Ugochinyere also revealed plans by the PDP to soon appoint a substantive National Secretary from the South East region, signaling continued restructuring efforts within the party.
