Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) convened in Enugu, issuing a stern warning against any presidential interference in the forthcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states. They also criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government for its poor performance and praised PDP-controlled states for their innovative developmental projects.
At the meeting, attended by 12 out of the 13 PDP governors, the governors expressed support for embattled Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and called for a swift resolution to the ongoing minimum wage negotiations.
Presenting the communique, Senator Bala Mohammed, the chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and governor of Bauchi State, emphasized the need for issue-based, violence-free campaigns in compliance with the Electoral Act. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure transparent and fair elections, warning against any bias.
The communique also urged the President to demonstrate true democratic leadership by avoiding any statements that could suggest political interference. The governors expressed confidence that the PDP would return to power in 2027 to address the nation’s economic challenges and restore its lost glory.
Highlighting the mismanagement of the economy by the APC-led federal government, the governors noted the decline in living standards and the erosion of gains made during the PDP’s 16 years in power. They promised to bring back the “good old days” of low inflation, affordable food, fuel, transportation, and higher living standards.
Regarding the minimum wage negotiations, the governors supported Labour’s demand for a substantial salary increase but stressed the need to consider the payment capabilities of local, sub-national, and federal governments. They appealed for restraint in actions and utterances to prevent economic collapse.
The forum also expressed solidarity with Governor Fubara amidst the crisis in Rivers State, committing to wider consultations for a peaceful resolution. They welcomed the Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy and pledged support for its implementation in a trust-building manner.
The governors commended the host, Dr. Peter Mbah, for his leadership in Enugu State and the South Eastern geopolitical zone, praising his achievements in landmark projects and interventions.
Governors in attendance included Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Godwin Obaseki of Edo, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, Agbu Kefas of Taraba, Dauda Lawal of Zamfara, Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa, Douye Diri of Bayelsa, and the host, Mbah.
