Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Muhammed (5th right), led a significant meeting alongside his counterparts from various states including Delta’s Sheriff Oborevwori (2nd left), Taraba’s Agbu Kefas (2nd right), Adamawa’s Ahmadu Fintiri (3rd left), Zamfara’s Dauda Lawal (4th right), Enugu’s Peter Mbah (3rd right), and Rivers’ Siminalayi Fubara (4th left), among others, in Enugu State. The gathering was marked by robust discussions and critical decisions impacting the nation’s political and economic landscapes.
The forum, in a communique read by Governor Bala Muhammed, expressed staunch criticism of the APC-led Federal Government’s handling of minimum wage negotiations, asserting that the demands put forth by organized labor were completely justified given the prevailing economic hardships. Governor Muhammed emphasized, “The minimum wage negotiations are taking too long, amidst unprecedented hardship faced by the majority of Nigerians.”
Echoing solidarity with labor’s call for a substantial salary increase, the governors underscored the need for agreements that factor in the fiscal capacities of federal, state, and local governments. They cautioned against actions that could destabilize societal order or jeopardize economic stability during this critical period.
Turning to recent legal rulings, the forum voiced strong support for the Supreme Court’s decision affirming local government autonomy. They reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of local governments as fundamental institutions closest to the people. “We stand by the local government system as crucial for grassroots development,” Governor Muhammed affirmed.
Reflecting on broader governance issues, the PDP Governors lamented what they described as the erosion of gains made during the party’s tenure at the federal level. They contrasted previous achievements, such as single-digit inflation and robust anti-corruption measures, with the current administration’s economic management. “The APC-led government has reversed the progress we made,” Governor Muhammed stated, emphasizing the forum’s determination to restore economic stability and improve living standards.
Praising the innovative governance strategies of PDP-controlled states, particularly in infrastructure, education, health, and youth empowerment, the governors highlighted ongoing efforts to deliver impactful developmental projects nationwide. They pledged to sustain these initiatives while advocating for transparent and inclusive internal party processes ahead of upcoming congresses.
Addressing electoral concerns, the forum urged all parties involved in off-season elections to prioritize issue-based campaigning and adhere strictly to electoral laws. They called on INEC to ensure fair and transparent elections, warning against any hint of bias. Notably, they urged political leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, to refrain from actions that could undermine the electoral process.
In discussing internal party dynamics, the forum expressed solidarity with Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State amid political challenges within the state’s chapter of the party. They affirmed their commitment to finding a political resolution that fosters unity and minimizes internal discord.
Looking ahead, the governors rallied Nigerians to reject anarchy and join efforts to restore the PDP to federal power in 2027. They thanked Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State for hosting the meeting, acknowledging his leadership in fostering party cohesion within the Southeast geopolitical zone.
The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue and collaboration among party leaders and stakeholders to address national challenges effectively. Governors and party leaders alike reaffirmed their commitment to promoting good governance, economic prosperity, and democratic values across Nigeria.
The event drew participation from a wide spectrum of PDP leadership, including state governors, party officials, former governors, senators, and representatives from various party organs. Their collective resolve underscored the forum’s determination to steer Nigeria towards a path of inclusive growth and stability under the PDP’s leadership.
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