The forum of governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) convened on Sunday evening to deliberate and seek backing for the resolutions made during their previous meeting in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. However, their discussions may have encountered complications with the unexpected arrival of Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister. It was reported that a primary focus of the meeting was to rally support for the decisions made in Ibadan.
The meeting had just commenced when Wike arrived at the venue in his black G-Wagon, attired in a black jalabiya and a white cap. He proceeded directly to the meeting hall at the Bauchi Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, joining governors, former governors, and members of the National Working Committee (NWC) who had gathered earlier. During the PDP Governors Forum meeting on April 14, 2025, it was resolved that the party would not endorse the formation of a coalition against the ruling party for the 2027 elections.
The governors expressed that as a significant opposition party, the PDP would welcome any party, association, or group willing to collaborate in reclaiming power and establishing effective leadership in 2027. Following the Ibadan meeting, Wike participated in an interview where he publicly expressed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 election. Present at the Sunday night meeting were the Governors of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke; Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang; Oyo State, Seyi Makinde; and Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri.
Also in attendance were PDP Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum; Secretary of the Board of Trustees and former Kaduna State Governor, Ahmed Makarfi; former Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson; former Osun State Governor, Olagunsoye Oyinlola; former Enugu State Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; and former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom.
Among those present were former Kwara State Governor and ex-President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki; former Niger State Governor, Babangida Muazu; former Bauchi State Governor, Adamu Muazu; former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal; former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido; and former Akwa Ibom Governor, Udom Emmanuel. The forum’s Chairman, Bala Mohammed, addressed journalists following the meeting, stating:
“This meeting serves as an opportunity to unify and ensure that there are no ill feelings, qualms, or misgivings among the party leaders. The governors have reached out to their predecessors, who possess greater experience, and their suggestions will significantly contribute to the success of our National Executive Committee (NEC) and the upcoming convention, reassuring our supporters that the PDP is functioning and united.” He acknowledged the existence of certain gaps and announced the formation of a seven-member committee, led by the former Senate President and Kwara State Governor, to facilitate swift reconciliation and outreach, aiming for a harmonious NEC and convention.
Regarding the issue of defections within the party, he remarked, “Such occurrences are typical in a democratic environment, prompting us to unite. Instead of weakening us, these challenges are strengthening our resolve, and we will ensure that the chapters with a historical presence and structure are not neglected. They will be positioned to nominate the next PDP governors, with God’s grace, as we strive to create a fair environment in the forthcoming convention.”
