The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly dismissed the signature forgery allegations raised by its National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, regarding the letter sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) notifying them of the upcoming national convention.
The Allegation
Senator Samuel Anyanwu submitted petitions to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) on October 15, 2025. He alleged that his signature on a letter dated August 25, 2025, which notified INEC of the party’s November 15-16 elective national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, was forged or cloned. He described the act as “shocking and criminal” and requested a full investigation and prosecution of the culprits, alleging collaboration between party officials and elements within INEC.
PDP’s Dismissal and Evidence
The PDP, through its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, held a press conference to refute the claim, insisting that Anyanwu personally signed the letters in question.
The party presented the following evidence to support its position:
- Witnesses: The PDP asserted that Anyanwu personally signed the official convention letters in the presence of several key party figures just hours before the 102nd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on August 25. These witnesses included several state governors (such as Ahmadu Fintiri, Bala Mohammed, Seyi Makinde, Ademola Adeleke, and Dauda Lawal) and other NWC members.
- Public Confirmation: During the NEC meeting, Governor Bala Mohammed, Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, publicly announced that “all communication to INEC has been signed by our National Working Committee,” and Anyanwu, who was present, reportedly did not raise any objection.
- Prior Engagement: The party also mentioned communications where Anyanwu engaged with other party leaders, including his involvement as secretary of the contact and mobilisation committee.
Future Actions
While the PDP NWC insists the convention process is on track, the forgery claim has deepened the internal crisis, which is also reflected in a legal dispute over who has the authority to represent the party in court. The controversy could potentially delay or derail the planned November convention, as Anyanwu’s petitions urge security agencies to investigate the matter. The party is currently proceeding with preparations for the Ibadan convention.
