Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have firmly shut down speculation about a possible merger or coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring that the party will remain independent and strong on its own terms.
At the end of the 2025 fourth PDP Governors’ Forum meeting held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Monday, the Forum’s Chairman and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, declared that while the PDP remains open to welcoming individuals and parties willing to join its cause, it would not merge with any political platform.
“The PDP will not join any coalition or merger,” Mohammed stated unequivocally, adding that the party is focused on reclaiming power through democratic means and providing the quality leadership Nigeria desperately needs in 2027.
The communique also condemned the deteriorating security situation across the country, citing recent violent incidents in Borno, Katsina, Edo, and Plateau States. The governors called for an urgent overhaul of the national security strategy, empowering states to take more active roles in protecting lives and property.
“The security situation has become deeply alarming. The time has come for a restructured and decentralized approach to national security,” the Forum stated.
In solidarity with Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, the PDP governors criticized what they described as attempts to subvert democracy in the state, including the controversial push for a state of emergency.
“We restate our unflinching support for Governor Fubara. The PDP will resist any form of constitutional abuse or political bullying,” the statement emphasized.
On party affairs, the Forum resolved key timelines:
•A National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting has been scheduled for May 27, 2025.
•The PDP National Convention will take place on August 28–30, 2025, in Kano.
•A Zoning Committee chaired by Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri, with Governors Dauda Lawal and Caleb Mutfwang as Vice Chairman and Secretary respectively, will handle party zoning issues.
•Governor Ahmadu Fintiri will lead the National Convention Committee, supported by Governors Ademola Adeleke and Peter Mbah as Vice Chairman and Secretary.
Regarding internal disputes, especially the issue of the party’s National Secretary, the Forum proposed that the Deputy Secretary serve in an acting capacity pending the nomination of a substantive candidate from the South East, as mandated by INEC.
The meeting was attended by several PDP governors including Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Umar Fintiri (Adamawa), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), and others. The Forum also expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde, the government, and the people of Oyo State for their hospitality.
