Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF) has firmly ruled out any involvement in ongoing nationwide merger speculations, stating that the party will not participate in any coalition or merger talks.
This was disclosed in a strongly worded communiqué issued after the Forum’s meeting held in Ibadan, Oyo State on Monday, April 15.
The meeting, chaired by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, brought together PDP governors from across the country to deliberate on critical issues affecting the party and the nation.
In response to rumors surrounding possible political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Forum emphasized that while the PDP remains open to welcoming individuals, groups, or parties that share its vision described as “wrestling power and enthroning good leadership,” it however, has no intention of dissolving its identity into any coalition.
Reiterating its previous stance taken during the Asaba meeting, the Forum maintained its commitment to ensuring that the position of National Secretary remains in the South East zone.
In light of the recent Supreme Court judgment, the Forum recommended that the Deputy National Secretary temporarily assume the role in an acting capacity until a substantive Secretary is nominated and ratified.
The Forum also took a strong position on the controversial declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, expressing its solidarity with Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
It described the federal action as an “ordeal” being imposed on the people of the state and vowed to support Governor Fubara throughout the crisis.
To safeguard democratic principles, the governors announced plans to approach the Supreme Court for a definitive interpretation of constitutional provisions regarding the declaration of states of emergency.
The PDP Governors equally expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, particularly in Borno, Katsina, Edo, and Plateau States.
The Forum called for a strategic overhaul, advocating for a “bottom-up” approach that empowers sub-national entities to become frontline defenders in combating insecurity.
The Forum condemned the recent attacks in Plateau State, offering condolences to affected families and communities.
In preparation for the party’s future, the Forum resolved to hold a PDP Stakeholders Meeting on May 27, 2025, and to convene the party’s National Convention in Kano on August 28–30, 2025.
To facilitate this, it announced the formation of two key committees: the zoning and national Convention committee.
While the Zoning Committee has Chaired by Governor Douye Diri (Bayelsa), with Governor Dauda Lawal (Zamfara) as Vice Chairman, Governor Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau) will serve as Secretary.
The National Convention Committee is to be chaired by Governor Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa) as Chairman, Governor Ademola Adeleke (Osun) as Vice Chairman, and Governor Peter Mbah (Enugu) as Secretary.
The Forum concluded by extending heartfelt appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde, the government, and the people of Oyo State for their warm hospitality during the meeting.
Present at the meeting are Bala Mohammed (Bauchi); Peter Mbah(Enugu) and Agbu Kefas(Taraba).
Others include Dauda Lawal(Zamfara); the host,Seyi Makinde(Oyo); Caleb Mutfwang(Plateau); ); Umaru Fintiri(Adamawa), Ademola Adeleke (Osun(and Douye Diri(Bayelsa).
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori(Delta) and Gov Umo Eno(Akwa Ibom) were represented by their deputies.
The suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara was absent at the meeting.