PDP Members Protest at US Embassy, Seek International Support to ‘Save Nigeria’s Democracy’

Members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) on Thursday staged a peaceful protest at the United States Embassy in Abuja, calling for international intervention to protect Nigeria’s democracy from what they described as a drift toward a one-party state.

The protesters, carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Save Our Democracy,” “Protect the Judiciary,” and “Nigeria Is Not a One-Party State,” also submitted protest letters to officials at the US Embassy, the European Union (EU) complex, and the Federal Ministry of Justice.

Speaking during the demonstration, the PDP members appealed to the international community to help safeguard democratic institutions, alleging that opposition figures are being intimidated and democratic principles eroded under the current administration.

“We are calling on the United States, the European Union, and all lovers of democracy to intervene before it’s too late. Nigeria must not be allowed to slide into a one-party dictatorship,” one of the protesters said.

They accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using state institutions to target opposition members and manipulate political processes, warning that silence from the global community could embolden anti-democratic actions.

The protest comes amid renewed internal crisis within the PDP, which has seen key members of the National Working Committee (NWC) suspend one another in a deepening power tussle.

Over the weekend, National Chairman Umar Damagum, alongside some NWC members, announced the suspension of National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, National Organising Secretary Umar Bature, and other key officers.

In a swift counteraction, the Anyanwu-led faction suspended Damagum, National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba, and four other officials, each side accusing the other of undermining the party’s constitution and unity.

The crisis escalated further on Monday when acting National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed, loyal to Anyanwu, resumed at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja, while Damagum and his loyalists were noticeably absent.

Political analysts say the PDP’s ongoing leadership crisis and its appeal to the international community highlight growing internal divisions and fears about the future of opposition politics in Nigeria.

Despite its internal challenges, the party maintains that it remains committed to democratic ideals and to holding the government accountable.

“The PDP will continue to stand for democracy, the rule of law, and the protection of Nigeria’s institutions,” one party leader told journalists during the protest.

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