PDP GOVERNOR'S FORUM STORMS JOS EXPRESSES RESOLUTE AND DETERMINATION TO ENSURE UNITY AND COHESION OF THE PARTY

Governors under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) storm Jos the Plateau State capital for a two days intensive 7th meeting of the party which took place at the Plateau State Government House.

Addressing Journalists the Chairman  of the forum and Bauchi State Governor  Sen. Bala A. Muhammad expresses the forum resolute and determination to ensure  unity of the party. 

The meeting was attended by the principal organs of the party, which includes the National Working Committee (NWC), PDP Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF), Board of Trustees (BOT), National Assembly (NASS) Forum, Former Governors’ Forum, and Former Ministers' Forum, focused on unity, leadership challenges, electoral reforms, and the state of the nation’s economy.

The PDP leadership emphasized the importance of unity within the party, following concerns about divisions among members. In a statement, the Forum reiterated its commitment to maintaining cohesion within the party, underscoring that it remains the best platform for democratic governance in Nigeria. The leadership pledged to work diligently towards addressing any internal challenges that may threaten the party’s unity.

In a show of empathy, the Forum accepted the postponement of the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, originally scheduled for this weekend, following the death of Governor Eno Bassey’s wife. The PDP expressed condolences to the Governor and his family, offering prayers for strength during their difficult time. The Forum also emphasized the need for a more strategic and comprehensive timeline for the party’s internal consultations.

While acknowledging the need for consultations within the party, the Forum called for the NEC to be convened by the first week of February 2025. The proposed delay would allow time for broader stakeholder engagement and a focused discussion on critical issues, including leadership challenges and ongoing litigations. The Forum stated that this period would be used to ensure the party is well-prepared for the next electoral cycle.

The Forum expressed deep concern over the ongoing economic challenges facing Nigerians, particularly due to the policies of the APC-led federal government. It called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently review the country’s macroeconomic and fiscal policies, focusing on the welfare of Nigerians. The PDP Governors’ Forum also pledged to continue pushing policies at the state level to alleviate the burden on citizens, aiming for progress and development despite the national economic difficulties.

In a strongly worded statement, the Forum condemned the alleged manipulation of election results in the Edo State Governorship elections, where it claimed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) skewed results in favor of the APC candidate, despite Mr. Asue Ighodalo of the PDP winning a majority of lawful votes. The PDP also raised concerns about vote-buying in Ondo State, with ongoing investigations into the matter. The Forum called on the judiciary to protect democracy and urged the National Assembly to review electoral laws to prevent future abuses and ensure the will of the people is upheld.

The forum acknowledge the efforts of the majority members in the National Assembly, the Forum urged lawmakers to critically assess all proposed bills, ensuring fairness, equity, and national balance. It stressed the importance of passing laws that would lead to even development across the country.

The Forum also extended its condolences to the government and people of Plateau State following the devastating fire at the Katako Market, which caused millions of naira in damage. Similarly, the Forum expressed sympathy to the people of Jigawa State following the tragic loss of life in a tanker explosion, which resulted in multiple casualties and injuries.

The PDP Governors’ Forum acknowledged the efforts of the Plateau State Government under the leadership of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, commending the state for its notable achievements in social services, tourism, and transportation. The Forum expressed optimism that these positive developments would continue after 2027 when the party is poised to reclaim its position in the Nigerian political landscape.

Governors in Attendance

The meeting was attended by several prominent governors, including:

H.E. Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (Bauchi State), Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum

H.E. Barr. Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau State), Host Governor

H.E. Dr. Agbu Kefas (Taraba State)

H.E. Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa State)

H.E. Seyi Makinde (Oyo State)

H.E. Dr. Dauda Lawal (Zamfara State)

H.E. Sir Monday Onyeme (Deputy Governor, Delta State)

H.E. Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai (Deputy Governor, Enugu State)

The PDP leadership’s meeting in Jos has outlined a clear path for the party’s internal reforms and response to national issues. With a focus on unity, electoral integrity, and addressing Nigeria’s economic woes, the party is preparing for a renewed political campaign as it aims to reclaim its rightful place in the political scene come 2027. The Governors' Forum remains committed to its role in providing leadership and working towards policies that will enhance the lives of Nigerians across the country.