Governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) convened in Enugu yesterday to discuss various issues and express their concerns ahead of the upcoming off-season governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states. The governors issued a warning against any form of presidential interference in these elections, emphasizing the need for a level playing field and adherence to the provisions of the Electoral Act.
During the meeting, the PDP governors also criticized the performance of the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government, describing it as abysmal and lacklustre. They commended the PDP-controlled state governments for their innovative approaches to developmental projects across the country.
Senator Bala Mohammed, the governor of Bauchi State and chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, presented a communique at the end of the meeting. The communique called on all parties involved to focus on issues during their campaigns and urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure transparent and fair elections. The governors also urged President Muhammadu Buhari to refrain from making any statements that could be interpreted as political interference in the electoral process.
Expressing their concerns about the state of the economy and the nation, the governors assured Nigerians that the PDP would return to power in 2027 to restore the country’s lost glory. They highlighted the economic mismanagement by the APC-led federal government and the erosion of the progress made during the 16-year rule of the PDP. The governors promised to bring back the good old days of low inflation, affordable food and fuel, steady foreign direct investment, and an improved quality of life for all Nigerians.
The PDP governors also expressed their support for an expedited negotiation of a new minimum wage, acknowledging the need for a substantial salary raise. However, they emphasized that the ability of other tiers of government to pay should also be taken into consideration. The governors appealed for restraint in both words and actions during the negotiation process to avoid a breakdown of law and order.
Furthermore, the governors stood in solidarity with Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State amidst the crisis rocking the Rivers State chapter of the party. They committed to ensuring peace and finding a peaceful resolution to the conflicts through wider consultations with stakeholders.
The PDP governors commended Dr. Peter Mbah, the host governor of the meeting and governor of Enugu State, for his leadership and achievements in the state and the entire South Eastern geo-political zone.
In conclusion, the PDP governors demonstrated their unity and determination to address the challenges facing the nation. They called for a fair electoral process, a revitalized economy, and a return to good governance under the PDP’s leadership in 2027.
