Governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have ruled out any merger or coalition with other political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
This decision was outlined in a communiqué issued on Monday following their meeting in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
The announcement comes amid growing discussions about a potential coalition among opposition parties aimed at presenting a formidable challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). These speculations have been fueled by ongoing “strategic meetings” among opposition politicians across the nation.
Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has been a vocal advocate for such a coalition. He has repeatedly emphasized the need for opposition parties to unite in their quest to unseat the APC-led administration of President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming elections.
Despite these calls for unity, the PDP governors remain steadfast in their decision to maintain the party’s independence.
“Noting the nationwide speculations about possible merger of political parties, groups and/or associations, the Forum resolved that the PDP will not join any coalition or merger,” the communiqué declared.
However, the governors signaled their openness to welcoming individuals, groups, or parties willing to align with the PDP’s mission to reclaim power from the APC. This approach, they said, aligns with the party’s broader vision for strengthening its position in the political landscape.
The meeting also addressed pressing national concerns, including the rising insecurity in the country. The governors described the situation as “alarming” and called for a comprehensive review of security strategies. They advocated for a bottom-up approach that empowers state governments to play a more active role in combating security threats.
In a show of solidarity, the PDP governors reaffirmed their support for Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended governor of Rivers State.
Attendees at the Ibadan meeting included governors Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), and Peter Mbah (Enugu). Deputies Akon Eyakenyi (Akwa Ibom) and Monday Onyeme (Delta) represented their respective governors.
