PDP governors recently gathered in Jos, Plateau State and released a statement acknowledging the current hardship being experienced by Nigerians.
The governors expressed empathy for Nigerians suffering due to the economic challenges attributed to the APC-led federal government, urging an urgent review of policies affecting citizens’ welfare. They pledged to implement measures that would alleviate hardship and promote progress.
Addressing the concerns of party members regarding internal divisions, the governors reaffirmed their dedication to unity within the party, which they believe is the best platform for democratic governance.
In a communiqué signed by Senator Bala Mohammed, the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, they noted their understanding of the recent postponement of the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, coinciding with the funeral of Governor Eno Bassey’s wife. The governors recommended that the National Working Committee (NWC) convene the NEC by the first week of February 2025 to facilitate thorough consultations with key party stakeholders.
Since the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, took office following the court’s removal of Senator Iyorchia Ayu, the PDP has faced internal strife. During the 98th NEC meeting on April 18, 2024, party leaders established a reconciliation and disciplinary committee and initiated plans for Ward and State Congresses. They also tasked the North-central Caucus with consulting on the selection of a new National Chairman.
The forum called on the judiciary to protect Nigerian democracy and urged the National Assembly to reform electoral laws to prevent manipulation of the electorate’s will. While recognizing the positive contributions of many National Assembly members, they urged lawmakers to scrutinize bills for fairness and equitable national development.
The 99th NEC meeting, initially set for August 15, was delayed until October 24, 2024, and then rescheduled for November 28, 2024, before being indefinitely postponed due to a scheduling conflict with the funeral of Governor Eno’s wife. In response to these developments, including the recent postponement, the PDP Governors’ Forum reiterated its commitment to party unity.
The forum expressed condolences to Governor Eno Bassey for his loss and urged the NWC to reconvene the NEC by early February 2025. The governors also extended their sympathies to the people of Plateau State following the recent Katako market fire and to Jigawa State regarding a tanker explosion. For the recent elections in Edo and Ondo state, the forum condemned the manipulation of election results in Edo, asserting that the INEC favored the APC candidate despite the PDP’s legitimate majority. Additionally, they are still reviewing the Ondo elections, where they allege vote-buying occurred.
