The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum has announced that the party will not join or merge with any other political party ahead of the 2027 general elections. This declaration was made by the Chairman of the forum, Gov. Muhammed Bala of Bauchi State, during a meeting held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Monday.
In a communique read by Gov. Bala, he emphasized that the PDP governors resolved that the party would not be joining any coalition or merger. He stated, “The PDP governors resolved that the party would not join any coalition or merger.” However, he clarified that while the party would not engage in a merger, it remained open to alliances. “PDP as a major opposition party would welcome any party, association or group that was willing to join it, with a view to wrestle power and enthrone good leadership in 2027,” he added.
Bala, accompanied by other PDP governors, also reaffirmed the party’s position on the national secretary issue, which was raised following a recent Supreme Court ruling. He said, “On the wake of the Supreme Court judgment, the forum resolved to recommend the Publicity Secretary of the party to act as the national secretary, pending the nomination and ratification of a substantive national secretary from the South East zone by NEC at its next meeting.”
Further discussing the legal matters, Bala revealed that the forum had decided to approach the Supreme Court to seek clarity on the interpretation of laws regarding the declaration of a State of Emergency in any state. “The forum, therefore, reiterates its solidarity with His Excellency, Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers, on the ordeal in which he and his people are being plunged into by the declaration of State of Emergency. And we reiterate our commitment to stand with him to the end,” he said.
The governors also expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in various states, particularly Borno, Plateau, Katsina, and Edo. Bala noted that the forum called for a review of security priorities and strategies to guarantee improved security across the country. He added that the forum commiserated with the people of Plateau over the recent loss of lives due to attacks in the state.
The PDP governors also announced that a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party would be held on May 27, where zoning committees would be constituted to address issues related to party office management. Bala further stated that the party’s convention would take place in Kano on August 20, 29, and 30.
Present at the meeting were Governors Peter Mbah (Enugu), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa), and Douye Diri (Bayelsa). Governors Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom) were represented by their deputies, Monday Onyeme and Sen. Akon Eyakenyi, respectively.
(NAN)