The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has thanked Nigerians and its members for standing by the party during what it described as an attempt by anti-democratic forces to take over its National Secretariat in Abuja on Monday.

The newly elected National Working Committee (NWC), led by National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, said the support and courage shown by citizens helped the party resist what it called state-backed intimidation.

According to the PDP, this shows again that Nigerians still see the party as their preferred choice ahead of the 2027 elections.

The statement on it’s official Facebook page said many Nigerians cheered when Turaki arrived for the first official meeting of the new NWC, accompanied by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

But the PDP said trouble started when some police officers and thugs allegedly hired by the expelled former National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and backed by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike also expelled blocked the entrance of the secretariat.

The party alleged that the group tried to stop its leaders from entering the premises.

According to the PDP: “Without any provocation, they fired tear-gas canisters at the Governors, NWC members, party leaders and peaceful supporters. This reckless action triggered a stampede and resulted in multiple injuries. They fired over 200 canisters at unarmed and harmless citizens who had gathered to witness a lawful party meeting.”

The PDP called on the international community, pro-democracy groups, and global institutions to condemn what it described as an attack on political freedom in Nigeria.

The party reaffirmed its commitment to defending democracy and urged security agencies to remain neutral, protect citizens, and focus on tackling insecurity rather than being used against opposition parties.

The NWC said it will continue to resist all efforts by anti-democratic actors to destabilize the PDP or the democratic system.