Chaos at PDP Convention as Armed Thugs Invade Venue After Jonathan’s Ratification

What was expected to be a key political gathering for a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ended in confusion and violence on Saturday after suspected political thugs disrupted the convention and attacked journalists in Abuja.

The convention, organised by the interim National Working Committee headed by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, was intended to formally ratify former President Goodluck Jonathan as the faction’s presidential candidate.

However, the event encountered obstacles even before proceedings began.

Earlier in the day, roads leading to the A-Class Event Centre, the original venue of the convention, were reportedly blocked by security personnel. This followed a directive from the Federal Capital Territory Administration instructing event centres and public facilities to engage only with political party leaderships recognised by Independent National Electoral Commission.

As a result, organisers relocated part of the programme to a private residence in Area 10, Abuja.

At the alternative venue, veteran politician Jerry Gana received the Certificate of Return on behalf of Jonathan, effectively completing the ratification process.

Party leaders, delegates, supporters and former ministers later returned to the A-Class Event Centre to continue other convention activities.

It was at that point that the gathering turned chaotic.

According to reports, armed thugs carrying sticks and other dangerous objects stormed the venue, disrupting proceedings and attacking attendees. Journalists covering the event were among those reportedly assaulted, while phones and personal belongings were allegedly stolen during the invasion.

The attack sparked panic throughout the venue, forcing participants to abandon the convention as they sought safety.

Despite the disruption, the convention had already ratified Jonathan as the faction’s presidential candidate before the violence erupted, marking a dramatic and controversial chapter in the party’s ongoing internal crisis.

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