There was a heavy police presence at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national headquarters on Monday as the party’s National Secretary dispute continues to simmer.

Both Samuel Anyawu, the embattled National Secretary, and Ude Okoye, who the Court of Appeal has declared the authentic National Secretary, were expected to assume duties today, fueling a tense standoff at the party’s secretariat.

Sources on the ground reported that while the atmosphere remained charged, the presence of police personnel ensured some level of order.

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Supporters of both Anyawu and Okoye gathered outside, each faction determined to back their respective candidates.

The situation took a dramatic turn when Anyawu drove into the premises and proceeded directly to his office, where he was greeted by cheers from his loyalists.

Inside, Anyawu called for prayers before addressing the media.

Responding to questions regarding the Court of Appeal’s ruling in favor of Okoye, Anyawu confirmed that the matter has been appealed and is currently before the Supreme Court.

When asked about the PDP’s acknowledgment of Okoye as the National Secretary, following a briefing by the national publicity secretary last week, Anyawu dismissed it as the personal opinion of the spokesperson.

The roots of this conflict trace back to Anyawu’s decision to contest the Imo State governorship election, a move that led him to temporarily vacate the National Secretary position.

Upon his return, Okoye, who had assumed the role during Anyawu’s absence, challenged Anyawu’s right to reclaim the office.

Following legal proceedings, the Court of Appeal ruled in Okoye’s favor, and the PDP National Working Committee acknowledged Okoye as the legitimate National Secretary, respecting the court’s decision.

Despite this, Anyawu continues to assert his claim, with both sides preparing for a prolonged battle.

The Edo Governorship Election Petition Tribunal commenced proceedings today in Benin City, setting the stage for a heated legal battle between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The tribunal will adjudicate on the disputed outcome of the September 21 gubernatorial election, which declared APC’s candidate, Governor Monday Okpebholo, as the winner.

The PDP’s candidate, Asue Ighodalo, has filed a petition challenging the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

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The petition alleges widespread irregularities, including non-compliance with the Electoral Act, inflated votes for the APC in its strongholds, and the unlawful cancellation of PDP votes in key local government areas.

Speaking ahead of the tribunal’s opening session, PDP spokesperson Barrister Tony Ehilebo expressed confidence in the strength of the party’s case.

“We have submitted overwhelming evidence to prove that the election was rigged. This tribunal has an opportunity to restore the mandate stolen from the people of Edo and reaffirm the integrity of our democracy,” Ehilebo said.

The APC, however, has dismissed the PDP’s allegations as unfounded. Chief Alex Okosun, a prominent APC leader, criticized the opposition’s legal challenge as unnecessary.

“It is time for politicians to accept defeat and stop litigating every election result. Asue and Governor Okpebholo are both Esan; they should work together to move Edo forward. This is about progress, not division,” Okosun stated.

The tribunal’s proceedings have sparked intense debate across the state.

While PDP supporters remain optimistic about overturning the results, APC loyalists are confident that Governor Okpebholo’s mandate will be upheld.

The United Kingdom’s (UK) Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme (ETAS) for visitors from many additional countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, became operative on Wednesday.

It was gathered that the system comes with the objective of tightening border security would allow eligible travellers to enter Britain with pre-travel authorization.

The cost implication of the ETAS, according to the AFP would be £10 per head and permits stays of up to six months within two years.

The initiative was first introduced in 2023, beginning with Qatar.

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In 2024, it was expanded to include five Gulf countries but would now be covering citizens from approximately 50 more nations, including Argentina, Brazil, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and several Caribbean territories.

It was gathered that travellers required to use the system can apply via an app. The applications for the newly added countries opened last November.

By April, the scheme is expected to extend to European Union (EU), countries and other territories. From March 5, travellers in these regions can begin applying for ETAS.

The system applies to visitors transiting through the UK, as well as to children and infants.

However, British and Irish citizens, residents, and those holding passports from British-overseas territories are exempt.

In addition, it does not alter requirements for countries that already require a visa for UK entry, such as China and South Africa.

However, London’s Heathrow Airport had opposed the scheme, on the grounds that its rollout already reduced the number of passengers transiting through the UK, a clear indication that the policy made the country “less competitive” and harmful to economic growth.

This development parallels Europe’s forthcoming ETIAS system, which is expected to begin later this year.

The EU’s version will cover visa-exempt nationals travelling to 30 countries, including the UK, and will cost seven euros for three years of access.

According to government data, the US, Canada, and Australia collectively account for around six million visitors to the UK annually.

The UK government views the ETAS as a crucial step in strengthening its border security measures.