In what many political watchers are calling a crucial strategy session, the Governors elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gathered in Ibadan, Oyo State on Monday, April 14, 2025, to chart a way forward for the party and the nation. But there was one notable absentee—Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State.
The absence of Governor Fubara, who has been in the news for political tension in his state, did not go unnoticed, especially as the meeting touched on several national issues, including party strategy, national security, and the road to the 2027 general elections.
Bala Mohammed Leads the Conversation
The closed-door meeting, which lasted nearly six hours, was chaired by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who also serves as the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum. His role was pivotal in coordinating discussions around internal party decisions and broader national matters.
Present at the meeting were several PDP Governors and top representatives:
- Governor Ademola Adeleke (Osun)
- Governor Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa)
- Governor Seyi Makinde (Oyo – the host)
- Governor Douye Diri (Bayelsa)
- Governor Dauda Lawal (Zamfara)
- Governor Agbu Kefas (Taraba)
- Governor Peter Mbah (Enugu)
- Akwa Ibom Deputy Governor, Akon Eyakenyi
- Delta State Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme
The gathering took place at the Governor’s Office in Agodi, Ibadan, under tight security, with a strong focus on both party unity and national interest.
Fubara’s No-Show and the Rivers Crisis
One of the biggest talking points was the absence of Governor Fubara, who has been navigating a political storm in Rivers State. His conflict with political stakeholders in the state has drawn national attention and concerns about governance and peace.
Although he wasn’t physically present, the PDP Governors didn’t leave him out. The Forum issued a statement expressing full solidarity and support for Governor Fubara, reaffirming their belief in his leadership and urging stakeholders to allow peace and democratic processes to prevail in Rivers State.
PDP Says No to Coalition or Merger… For Now
With talks of party mergers and political coalitions making the rounds ahead of the 2027 elections, many expected the PDP to take a stance. And they did.
In a communique read by Governor Bala Mohammed, the PDP Governors’ Forum made it clear: the party has no plans to enter any merger or coalition at this time. However, they welcomed individuals, parties, and groups interested in joining their vision of providing alternative leadership and good governance.
“The Forum resolved that the PDP will not join any coalition or merger. However, as a major opposition party, it welcomes any party, persons, or groups willing to join it with a view to wrestling power and enthroning good leadership in 2027,” the communique read.
This statement appears to set the tone for an open-door policy—without compromising the party’s structure or values.
National Security Takes Center Stage
The PDP Governors didn’t shy away from addressing one of Nigeria’s biggest challenges: insecurity. Rising cases of violence and criminal activities in Borno, Katsina, Edo, and Plateau States were specifically mentioned as causes for concern.
The Forum called for an urgent review and overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, suggesting a more grassroots-focused, bottom-up approach. They stressed the importance of empowering state and local governments to take more responsibility in protecting their people.
This aligns with growing calls from across the country for decentralized policing and stronger sub-national security mechanisms.
Looking Ahead: PDP National Convention and Zoning
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the announcement of the PDP National Meeting scheduled for May 27, 2025. During this meeting, the Zoning Committee for party leadership positions will be inaugurated.
The National Convention of the party has been scheduled to take place from August 28 to 30, 2025, in Kano State.
In preparation, the Forum appointed:
- Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa as Chairman of the Zoning Committee
- Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa as the head of the National Convention Planning Committee
These moves indicate that the PDP is beginning to align its internal structures in readiness for 2027, with early planning and organized leadership roles.
What This Means for 2027
While 2027 might seem far away, the PDP is clearly setting its house in order early. With tensions in some states and the ruling party already posturing for another run, opposition coordination and clarity will be key.
Governor Fubara’s situation will likely continue to attract attention in the coming weeks, especially as the PDP Governors’ Forum has now publicly backed him. His absence at the Ibadan meeting may have raised eyebrows, but his inclusion in the Forum’s resolutions shows he still has strong allies within the party.
Whether the PDP sticks to its current “no coalition” policy or adjusts closer to the election remains to be seen. But one thing is certain—the race for 2027 has unofficially begun.
