Members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) staged a peaceful protest on Thursday at the United States Embassy in Abuja, advocating for international intervention to protect Nigeria’s democracy amid concerns of an alleged drift toward a one-party state. The protesters emphasized the need for safeguarding democratic principles and called attention to what they perceive as increasing intimidation of opposition members by the ruling party.
As part of their demonstration, the PDP members submitted protest letters not only at the U.S. Embassy but also at the European Union complex, the Ministry of Justice, and the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters, all located in Abuja. Videos shared on social media depicted demonstrators holding placards with messages such as “Fix PDP, fix Nigeria, save our democracy,” “Stop party opposition intimidation,” and “Please save our democracy from intimidation.”
The protesters voiced their concerns over the escalating harassment of opposition figures, which they argue threatens the integrity of Nigeria’s multi-party political system. This protest occurs against the backdrop of a significant internal crisis within the PDP itself, marked by competing factions within the National Working Committee. Recently, one faction led by Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum suspended National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu and several others, prompting a retaliatory suspension from the rival faction loyal to Anyanwu.
This leadership struggle has further deepened the divisions within the party, with both factions asserting their legitimacy amid ongoing turmoil. The internal conflict within the PDP, coupled with the external pressures highlighted by the protest, underscores the challenges facing Nigeria’s main opposition party as it seeks to navigate a politically charged environment.
