PDP Headquarters Remains Sealed Despite Tinubu’s Order to Reopen Properties
Over a day after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the immediate reopening of properties sealed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja remains closed—fueling concerns about political interference.
On Monday, FCTA officials carried out a sweeping clampdown on properties reportedly defaulting on ground rent payments, including prominent establishments like the PDP secretariat in Wuse Zone 5. The action sparked public outcry, prompting President Tinubu to step in and offer a 14-day grace period for property owners to resolve their documentation and settle outstanding payments, along with a N2 million fine.
However, as of 10:15 a.m. Wednesday, the PDP headquarters was still under lock, according to on-site observations reported by Daily Trust. The compound’s gate remained padlocked, with an official FCTA seal posted. Several staff members were spotted outside the premises—some waiting, others clearly frustrated.
“I was here when they reopened places like FIRS, Ibro Hotel, and NAPTIP,” said one employee, who asked not to be named. “But when they reached our office, they just walked away. I followed up at their office, and the Director of Lands told me they were waiting for instructions from AGIS before doing anything about the PDP.”
The PDP, which had quickly denounced the closure as politically motivated, has stood firm in its stance. Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum slammed the action as “an assault on democracy” and warned that the party would not tolerate what it perceives as intimidation. “This is the height of irresponsibility,” he said on Monday, suggesting the move was aimed at undermining opposition forces.
At the center of the brewing controversy is FCT Minister Nyesom Wike—a former PDP governor who has been openly critical of the party in recent times. While Wike has not publicly commented on the ongoing standoff, his role in the matter has raised eyebrows, given his political history with the PDP.
For now, the PDP has not released a fresh official statement addressing the continued lockdown of its national secretariat. Observers are watching closely to see whether the FCTA will comply with the president’s directive—or if political interests will continue to override exe
cutive orders.
