Governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have dismissed ongoing speculations about a potential merger of parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. The governors also expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security situation in various regions of the country, particularly in Borno, Katsina, and Edo States.
Following their 4th meeting in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, read a communique in which the Forum made its position clear. He stated, "The Forum has resolved that the PDP will not join any coalition or merger." The PDP, as a major opposition party, remains open to welcoming parties, individuals, or groups who wish to join in its mission to reclaim power and establish good leadership in the upcoming 2027 elections.
The communique emphasized: "Noting the nationwide speculations about possible mergers of parties, groups, and associations, the Forum resolved that the PDP will not join any coalition or merger." However, the Forum reiterated its welcoming stance towards any entities that aim to unite with the PDP to challenge for leadership in 2027.
The PDP Governors also reaffirmed their earlier position on the matter of the National Secretary of the party. In light of a recent Supreme Court judgment, the Forum recommended that the Deputy Secretary act as National Secretary until a substantive appointment is made from the South East Zone, following INEC's ratification.
In another critical stance, the governors addressed the ongoing security crisis in Nigeria, condemning the rise in attacks across states like Borno, Katsina, Edo, and Plateau. The governors urged for a reevaluation of the national security strategy, calling for state governments to be empowered to take proactive steps in securing their territories.
The communique also outlined plans for future party engagements. A National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting is scheduled for May 27, 2025, and a Zoning Committee will be formed to address matters related to the zoning of party offices. Additionally, an early convention will be held in Kano on August 28-30, 2025. The Forum also recommended the establishment of the Zoning and National Convention Committees for ratification by the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) and NEC.
The PDP Governors Forum expressed appreciation to the host governor, Seyi Makinde, for the warm hospitality extended during the meeting. The meeting was attended by various PDP governors, including those from Oyo, Bauchi, Adamawa, Osun, Enugu, Taraba, Zamfara, Plateau, Akwa Ibom, and Delta States, as well as other key PDP leaders.
