Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have firmly ruled out the possibility of the party joining any political merger or coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. The decision was part of a comprehensive communiqué issued at the end of the 4th meeting of the PDP Governors’ Forum (PDPGF) for 2025, held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Monday, April 15.
No to Merger, Yes to New Members
Amid growing national speculations regarding possible mergers among political parties and associations, the PDP governors maintained that the party would not enter into any merger or coalition arrangement. However, they expressed openness to individuals, parties, or groups willing to join the PDP to help reclaim power and restore credible leadership in 2027.
National Secretary: Acting Appointment Pending New Nominee
On the contentious issue of the National Secretary of the party, the Forum reiterated its previous position taken during an earlier meeting in Asaba. In light of the recent Supreme Court judgment, the governors resolved to recommend that the Deputy National Secretary assume the role of Acting National Secretary. This arrangement, they said, would remain until a substantive secretary is nominated and ratified from the South East zone and by the National Executive Committee (NEC).
Fubara Crisis and Constitutional Democracy
The Forum declared its unflinching support for Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, condemning the declaration of a state of emergency in the state. The governors described the situation as an ordeal for the people of Rivers and expressed commitment to stand with Fubara until justice prevails. They also stressed their collective determination to safeguard Nigeria’s constitutional democracy, which informed their decision to approach the Supreme Court for a definitive interpretation of the legal provisions guiding the declaration of a state of emergency.
Security Deterioration and Call for New Strategy
The PDP governors decried the worsening state of insecurity across the country, citing disturbing incidents in Borno, Plateau, Katsina, and Edo States. They called for an urgent overhaul of the current security framework and advocated for a “bottom-up” approach that empowers sub-national entities to play more active roles in protecting lives and property. The Forum specifically condemned the recent attacks in Plateau State and extended condolences to the victims, their families, and the government of the state.
NEC, Zoning, and Convention Plans
In a major step toward party reorganization, the Forum resolved to work with the National Working Committee (NWC) and other party organs to convene a NEC meeting on May 27, 2025. It also scheduled an early National Convention for August 28–30, 2025, to be held in Kano.
Zoning and Convention Committees Constituted
To facilitate preparations, the Forum recommended the constitution of the Zoning and National Convention Committees for ratification by the NWC and NEC:
- Zoning Committee:
- Chairman: Gov. Douye Diri (Bayelsa)
- Vice Chairman: Gov. Dauda Lawal (Zamfara)
- Secretary: Gov. Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau)
- National Convention Committee:
- Chairman: Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa)
- Vice Chairman: Gov. Ademola Adeleke (Osun)
- Secretary: Gov. Peter Mbah (Enugu)
Appreciation to Host Governor
The Forum concluded the meeting by expressing appreciation to the host governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, as well as the government and people of Oyo, for their warm hospitality and support during the meeting.
The communiqué was signed by the Forum Chairman and Governor of Bauchi State, His Excellency Bala A. Mohammed, CON, and dated May 14, 2025.
