The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF) has firmly ruled out any merger with other political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, signaling a renewed commitment to reposition the PDP as the leading opposition force in Nigeria.
This stance was made clear during the Forum’s 4th meeting of 2025, held in Ibadan, Oyo State, and hosted by Governor Seyi Makinde. After closed-door deliberations, the governors issued a communique, signed by their chairman, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, outlining key resolutions on party leadership, security, and national politics.
Amid widespread speculation about possible political coalitions, the PDP governors categorically rejected any merger plans. However, they welcomed individuals or groups willing to join the party in its mission to “wrestle power and enthrone good leadership” in 2027.
Addressing internal party matters, the governors recommended that the Deputy National Secretary assume the duties of the National Secretary, following a recent Supreme Court ruling. A substantive replacement from the South East will be nominated and ratified at the next National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
Backing Fubara Against State of Emergency
The Forum also reaffirmed its support for Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, condemning what it described as a politically motivated move to declare a state of emergency in the state. The governors emphasized their intention to seek a Supreme Court interpretation to protect constitutional democracy.
Concerned by the deteriorating security situation in states such as Borno, Plateau, Katsina, and Edo, the Forum called for a strategic overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture. They advocated for a “bottom-up” security model that empowers sub-national entities to actively participate in defense and crisis management.
NEC Meeting, Zoning Committee, and National Convention Scheduled
The PDP governors agreed to convene a NEC meeting on May 27, 2025, to discuss zoning arrangements and set the stage for the party’s National Convention, slated for August 28–30, in Kano.
To facilitate these preparations, the Forum proposed the constitution of two key committees:
Zoning Committee: Chaired by Gov. Douye Diri (Bayelsa), with Gov. Dauda Lawal (Zamfara) as Vice Chairman and Gov. Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau) as Secretary.
National Convention Committee: Headed by Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), with Gov. Ademola Adeleke (Osun) as Vice Chairman and Gov. Peter Mbah (Enugu) as Secretary.
Acknowledgement of Hospitality
Finally, the Forum expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde and the people of Oyo State for their warm reception and support during the meeting.
Attendees included: Governors and deputy governors from Bauchi, Osun, Adamawa, Oyo, Bayelsa, Zamfara, Taraba, Akwa Ibom, Enugu, and Delta states.
