The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum has announced the appointment of Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, as Chairman of the Zoning Committee, tasked with restructuring party positions ahead of the August 2025 National Convention.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Diri, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, the forum also appointed Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara as Vice Chairman and Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau as Secretary of the committee.
The announcement came following a strategic meeting of the PDP Governors Forum, held at the Oyo State Governor’s Office in Ibadan. The forum, chaired by Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, also recommended the constitution of a National Convention Committee to be led by Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri. Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State was named Vice Chairman, while Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State was appointed Secretary.
These committee recommendations await ratification by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) and the National Executive Committee (NEC).
No Coalition or Merger Plans for 2027 Elections.
Addressing ongoing political speculations, the forum firmly stated that the PDP would not engage in any coalition or merger with other parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, it welcomed individuals or political groups willing to join the PDP to foster good governance and reposition the party for victory.
“The PDP will remain a stand-alone major opposition party,” Governor Bala Mohammed emphasized. “But we are open to welcoming like-minded groups who want to join our mission to rescue Nigeria.”
Supreme Court Action on State of Emergency.
The forum reiterated its intent to approach the Supreme Court for a definitive interpretation of constitutional provisions regarding the declaration of a state of emergency in any state. This move comes in the wake of ongoing political tensions in Rivers State, where the party reaffirmed its unwavering support for suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
“We stand by Governor Fubara and condemn attempts to plunge his state into crisis,” the communique stated.
Condemnation of Insecurity and Plateau Attacks.
The governors also voiced concern over the escalating insecurity across several states, including Borno, Katsina, Edo, Benue and Plateau. They condemned the recent violent attacks in Plateau and extended condolences to the affected communities.
They urged the Federal Government to adopt a new security strategy, including a bottom-up approach that empowers sub-national governments to serve as effective lines of defense against criminal elements.
More Read
NEC Meeting Scheduled for May 27, Convention Set for August.
The forum disclosed plans to hold a crucial NEC meeting on May 27, 2025, where the Zoning Committee’s recommendations will be considered. The PDP National Convention is scheduled for August 28–30, 2025, in Kano.
Key members who attended the Ibadan meeting include Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), and Peter Mbah (Enugu), as well as Deputy Governors Senator Akon Eyakenyi (Akwa Ibom) and Sir Monday Onyeme (Delta).
