IBADAN — The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDPGF) has ruled out any merger or coalition with other political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. This decision was made during its 4th meeting of 2025 held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Monday, April 15. The forum, however, emphasized its openness to welcoming individuals or groups willing to join the PDP in its mission to reclaim power and promote effective leadership in the country.
According to a communique issued after the meeting, the PDP governors were unanimous in affirming the party’s independence and strength as Nigeria’s leading opposition platform. They noted growing public speculation around possible political realignments but insisted that the PDP would not be part of any coalition or merger arrangement.
“The PDP remains a strong, viable opposition party and will not be subsumed into any coalition,” the forum stated. “However, we welcome like-minded parties, groups, or individuals who share our goal of delivering purposeful leadership and rescuing Nigeria in 2027.”
On internal party matters, the Forum addressed the controversy surrounding the position of National Secretary. Citing the Supreme Court’s recent judgment, the governors resolved to recommend that the Deputy National Secretary assume the role in acting capacity. This, they explained, would be pending the nomination and NEC ratification of a substantive National Secretary from the South East.
The governors also discussed the current political tensions in Rivers State and the reported threat of a state of emergency. Expressing solidarity with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Forum declared its support for his administration, stating that any attempt to undermine democratic governance in the state would be resisted.
They further announced plans to approach the Supreme Court to seek a clear interpretation of the constitutional provisions guiding the declaration of a state of emergency in any Nigerian state. “We remain committed to defending our democracy and preventing constitutional violations,” the governors said.
Security concerns featured prominently in the meeting, with the Forum describing the current situation in many parts of the country as alarming. They highlighted rising insecurity in Borno, Plateau, Katsina, and Edo States and called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture.
The governors recommended a bottom-up security model, allowing states and local communities to take more active roles in ensuring safety and stability. They also condemned the recent attacks in Plateau State, expressing condolences to affected families and the state government.
In line with plans to strengthen party structures ahead of the 2027 elections, the Forum resolved to hold a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on May 27. It also confirmed that the party’s National Convention would be held in Kano on August 28–30, 2025.
As part of the preparation for the convention, the Forum announced the constitution of two major committees. The Zoning Committee will be chaired by Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri, with Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal as Vice Chairman and Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang as Secretary. The National Convention Committee will be led by Adamawa Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, with Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke as Vice Chairman and Enugu Governor Peter Mbah as Secretary.
The Forum expressed appreciation to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for hosting the meeting and lauded the hospitality of the people of Oyo State. “We are grateful for the warm welcome and excellent arrangements that made this meeting a success,” the governors noted.
Those in attendance included Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi (Chairman), Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun, and Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa. Others were Governor Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Governor Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Deputy Governor Akon Eyakenyi (Akwa Ibom), Governor Peter Mbah (Enugu), and Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme (Delta).
The communique was signed by Forum Chairman, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, on behalf of the attending governors.