Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State was Absent on Monday when Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors met in Ibadan. The meeting was chaired by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, who also leads the PDP Governors’ Forum. Other governors in attendance were from Osun, Adamawa, Oyo, Bayelsa, Zamfara, Taraba, Enugu, and the deputy governors of Akwa Ibom and Delta States. Fubara’s absence has raised more questions, especially given his current political crisis and recent suspension by President Bola Tinubu.
PDP Rejects Merger, Open to Like-Minded Allies
After six hours behind closed doors, the PDP governors made it clear: no coalition or merger plans for now. Governor Bala Mohammed, speaking on behalf of the Forum, explained that the PDP remains open to working with people or groups who share its mission of rescuing Nigeria and offering better leadership. In his words, “The PDP will not join any coalition or merger. However, it welcomes any party, persons, or groups willing to join it with a view to wrestling power and enthroning good leadership in 2027.”
Security, Solidarity, and Future Plans
The Forum declared full support for Fubara amid political tensions in Rivers State. It also expressed serious concern over rising insecurity in Borno, Edo, Katsina, and Plateau. According to the governors, Nigeria’s security setup needs urgent review and a new strategy that allows state governments to take more control in protecting their regions. Looking ahead, the PDP governors agreed to hold a national meeting on May 27, 2025. They will set up a Zoning Committee ahead of the party’s national convention in Kano from August 28 to 30. Governor Douye Diri will chair the Zoning Committee, while Governor Ahmadu Fintiri will lead the National Convention Committee.
Bottom Line
Governor Fubara’s absence from the PDP Governors’ meeting has stirred reactions, especially as the party distances itself from merger talks. With the 2027 elections in sight, the PDP appears focused on internal reorganisation and rebuilding trust with voters. Their firm stance on security, leadership, and party unity could shape the direction of Nigeria’s opposition politics in the coming months.
