Political thugs on Saturday stormed the venue of a factional Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) convention in Abuja, disrupting proceedings and assaulting journalists and party members.

The convention, organised by the PDP interim National Working Committee led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, was initially scheduled to hold at the A-Class Event Centre. However, following roadblocks around the venue and regulatory concerns over party leadership recognition, organisers relocated the ratification exercise to a private residence in Area 10, Abuja.

At the alternative venue, former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, received the Certificate of Return on behalf of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who was ratified as the faction’s presidential candidate.

After the presentation, delegates, party leaders and supporters returned to the original convention venue to continue other activities. Shortly afterwards, armed thugs invaded the event centre, causing panic and forcing participants to flee. Journalists and party members were reportedly attacked, while mobile phones and other valuables were stolen.

The incident abruptly halted the convention and heightened tensions surrounding the PDP faction’s efforts to formalise Jonathan’s candidacy ahead of the 2027 presidential election.