A tense atmosphere enveloped the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja on Monday after police officers fired teargas to disperse a gathering of politicians, journalists and party supporters. The incident, which unfolded quickly, triggered panic as people scampered for safety, abandoning documents, equipment and personal belongings in the confusion.
Witnesses described the moment as chaotic, with cameras dropping to the ground, security personnel shouting conflicting instructions and party officials rushing into nearby buildings for cover.
Why the police stormed the party secretariat
The disruption reportedly occurred during preparations for a scheduled PDP stakeholders’ briefing. Large crowds had gathered early in the day, including party chieftains, media crews and political observers who arrived to monitor developments surrounding the party’s ongoing internal disagreements.
According to observers, police officers stationed around the secretariat initially maintained a passive presence. However, tension escalated when officers moved closer to the main gate shortly before the briefing was expected to begin. Within minutes, teargas canisters were launched, sending thick smoke across the premises and forcing the crowd to flee.
Though the exact trigger remains unclear, sources within the party suggested that security agencies claimed the gathering had grown “uncontrollable,” while some party officials insisted the action was unnecessary and “politically motivated.”
Journalists caught in the crossfire
Several journalists covering the event were directly affected by the sudden teargas release. Many who were setting up cameras or conducting live interviews were forced to abandon their equipment as smoke filled the entrance of the secretariat.
One reporter recounted struggling to breathe as she ran toward the opposite side of the road: “It happened so fast. We heard a loud pop, then smoke everywhere. Everyone just ran. People were coughing, bumping into each other, trying to escape.”
Another journalist said he watched a politician stumble while attempting to get into his vehicle. “Even security aides were confused. Nobody expected the police to fire teargas at that moment,” he added.
PDP officials condemn the police action
Top PDP figures have criticised the forceful dispersal, calling it an infringement on the party’s right to assemble. A senior official, who spoke to reporters after the situation calmed, described the incident as “a direct intimidation tactic.”
He argued that the gathering was peaceful and controlled, insisting that the police acted without provocation. “What happened today is unacceptable. This is a democratic institution holding a lawful meeting. There was no reason for teargas,” he said.
Party members also expressed concern about the message such actions send at a time when political temperatures are already heightened over disputes surrounding the party’s national convention and leadership structure.
Police defend operation, give preliminary explanation
The police, through officers on ground, defended their decision, stating that they intervened to prevent what they believed could evolve into a security breach. According to them, intelligence reports had indicated that rival factions might clash at the venue.
“We acted to maintain order and protect lives,” one officer explained. “We did not come to attack anyone. We simply dispersed the crowd when it became too tense.”
However, many eyewitnesses dispute the police’s account, insisting there was no visible threat or altercation before the teargas was fired.
Aftermath and renewed calls for political calm
Following the dispersal, the area around the PDP secretariat remained tense for hours, with police officers continuing to monitor movement. Some journalists later returned to retrieve abandoned equipment, while party officials regrouped indoors to assess the situation.
Political analysts say the incident reflects the deepening division within the PDP and the heightened sensitivity surrounding national political activities. They warn that such confrontations, if not carefully managed, could inflame tensions ahead of upcoming internal party exercises.
For now, PDP leaders are expected to meet later in the week to discuss the incident and to demand accountability from security authorities. Meanwhile, Nigerians continue to react online, condemning the violence and calling for restraint from both political actors and security agencies.
