From Paul Orude, Bauchi
The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening democracy, repositioning the Party, and ensuring credible preparations ahead of its forthcoming National Convention slated for Saturday, November 15.
This was contained in a communique issued at the end of its 7th meeting of 2025, held on Saturday, August 23, in Gusau, the Zamfara State capital.
The Forum, which deliberated extensively on the state of the nation, the security situation, and ongoing efforts to revive the PDP, expressed gratitude to party members and supporters nationwide for their loyalty despite what it described as intimidation and anti-democratic practices by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during the recent Friday, August 9, nationwide bye-election.
The Governors commended the resilience of PDP leaders and members in overcoming orchestrated defections, insisting that such distractions could not diminish the Party’s strong grassroots base or the growing public yearning for good governance, affordable living, and relative security associated with past PDP-led administrations.
Reaffirming its commitment to the resolutions of the 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of July 2025, the Forum pledged to resist any attempt by anti-party forces to derail the upcoming National Convention. According to the PDP-GF, the Convention remains crucial for consolidating internal democracy and strengthening the Party as the viable alternative for restoring Nigeria’s progress and unity.
On national issues, the Forum decried what it termed the “divisive governance style of the APC” which it said has deepened hardship and insecurity across the country. While commending the Zamfara State Government for its strides in curbing insecurity, the Governors condemned the continued killings in Katsina, Plateau, Niger, Benue, and other states, urging the Federal Government to step up efforts in safeguarding lives and property.
The Forum also strongly condemned the alleged militarisation of the August 9 bye-election, citing widespread irregularities, vote-buying, and violence, while urging Nigerians to remain vigilant in defending their votes.
In their closing remarks, the PDP Governors expressed profound appreciation to the Government and people of Zamfara State for their hospitality in hosting the meeting. They congratulated Governor Dauda Lawal on his achievements in infrastructure, education, health, and social services, while also commiserating with the state over the death of the Emir of Gusau and extending condolences to the Government and people of Oyo State over the loss of traditional rulers.
The meeting, which had in attendance PDP governors from across the country, reinforced the Party’s resolve to defend democracy and provide inclusive leadership.
