PDP Governors Dismiss Merger Talks, Decry Worsening Insecurity in Nigeria
Governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday firmly rejected rumors of a possible political merger ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a communique released after the PDP Governors’ Forum’s 4th meeting of 2025, held in Ibadan, Oyo State, the forum also raised concerns over the deteriorating security situation across the country, particularly in Borno, Katsina, and Edo States.
Reading the communique, Forum Chairman and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, stated, “The Forum has resolved that the PDP will not enter into any coalition or merger.”
He, however, added that the PDP, as the main opposition party, remains open to welcoming individuals, groups, or other parties willing to join forces to challenge the ruling party and bring about effective leadership in 2027.
The communique read in part:
“Amid rising speculation nationwide about a possible merger of political parties and interest groups, the Forum resolved that the PDP will not be part of any coalition or merger. Nonetheless, the PDP is open to alliances with those committed to effecting real change in 2027.”
PDP National Secretary Position
On internal party matters, the Forum reaffirmed its stance—earlier taken in Asaba—regarding the position of the party’s National Secretary. Following the recent Supreme Court judgment, the governors agreed to recommend that the Deputy National Secretary assume the role in an acting capacity until a substantive Secretary is nominated from the South East and ratified by INEC.
The Forum also emphasized its collective commitment to upholding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy. It explained the decision to seek a definitive ruling from the Supreme Court regarding the constitutional provisions for declaring a state of emergency in any state.
The governors restated their support for Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, condemning the alleged political crisis in the state and vowing continued solidarity with him.
“We stand firmly with Governor Fubara amid the crisis threatening his state. Our commitment to defending constitutional democracy is unwavering,” the communique stated.
Insecurity and National Security Strategy
Expressing deep concern over Nigeria’s worsening security landscape, the Forum cited recent violent attacks in Borno, Katsina, Edo, and Plateau States. The governors called for an overhaul of the national security framework, proposing a strategy that allows state governments greater control in defending their territories.
NEC, Zoning, and Convention Plans
The Forum also announced key decisions regarding upcoming party events. It resolved to collaborate with the National Working Committee (NWC) and other party organs to convene a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on May 27, 2025. It also scheduled the party’s national convention for August 28–30, 2025, to be held in Kano.
The Forum recommended the following for ratification:
Zoning Committee:
Chairman: Governor Douye Diri (Bayelsa)
Vice Chairman: Governor Dauda Lawal (Zamfara)
Secretary: Governor Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau)
National Convention Committee:
Chairman: Governor Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa)
Vice Chairman: Governor Ademola Adeleke (Osun)
Secretary: Governor Peter Mbah (Enugu)
Appreciation to Host State
The Forum expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State for their warm hospitality during the meeting.
Attendees included PDP National Chairman Elia Damagum; Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Umar Fintiri (Adamawa), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Agbu Cephas (Taraba), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and representatives of Governors Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom) and Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta). Also in attendance was Oyo PDP Chairman, Wasiu Adeleke.
