PDP governors slam merger talks amid mounting security and political crises as 2027 elections loom.
IBADAN, Nigeria – In a dramatic show of defiance, the PDP governors have categorically dismissed any notions of a merger or coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a communiqué read at the 2025/4th PDP Governors’ Forum meeting in Ibadan, the Chairman of the Forum and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, declared that the party’s resolve remains unyielding.
The forum’s decision – to stand alone as a major opposition force – comes at a time when Nigeria grapples with an escalating security crisis that has reached alarming proportions in states like Borno, Katsina, Edo and Plateau.
The communiqué was both assertive and unambiguous: “The Forum has resolved that the PDP will not join any coalition or merger.” This stance, according to Governor Mohammed, reinforces the party’s commitment to wresting power from the ruling establishment and delivering the good leadership that Nigerians so desperately need.
While nationwide speculations about a possible realignment of opposition forces have been rife, the PDP leadership has firmly negated any such plans. The message is clear – the PDP stands ready to welcome any party, group or individual whose aspirations align with the goal of returning Nigeria to democratic normalcy, free from the authoritarian tendencies that have marred recent years.
Yet, the PDP’s decision has sparked a wave of criticism from political analysts who argue that this rigid stance may inadvertently isolate the party at a time when unity among opposition groups is paramount.
With the 2027 general elections looming, the refusal to consider a merger or coalition might be seen as a missed opportunity to consolidate support against a dominant ruling party.
Critics suggest that a fragmented opposition only serves to empower the incumbents and further undermines the democratic process in a country already beset by numerous challenges.
Adding fuel to the debate, the communiqué did not shy away from addressing internal party reforms. In a reference to a recent Supreme Court judgement, the forum resolved that the Deputy Secretary should act as National Secretary, pending the nomination and ratification of a substantive candidate from the South East Zone by INEC at its next meeting.
The Governors’ Forum lamented the deteriorating security situation across Nigeria, underscoring recent attacks in multiple states as a testament to the need for a revised national security strategy that empowers state governments. Such a strategy, they argued, would better address the complex challenges posed by insurgency, banditry and communal clashes.
In an atmosphere charged with both political ambition and existential crisis, the forum also announced plans to hold a National Executive Committee meeting on May 27, 2025.
Further, the constitution of a Zoning Committee and a National Convention Committee was recommended – with key figures such as Gov Douye Diri, Gov Dauda Lawal, Gov Caleb Mutfwang, Gov Ahmadu Fintiri, Gov Ademola Adeleke and Gov Peter Mbah set to steer the party’s future.
These measures, while aimed at organisational restructuring, have stirred debates among political pundits. Some view these moves as necessary steps to renew the party’s base and present a formidable alternative to the ruling government, while others remain sceptical about the potential for internal discord to derail the party’s electoral prospects.
The meeting, hosted graciously by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, was attended by prominent figures including PDP National Chairman Elia Damagum, and governors from across the federation.
As the PDP continues to chart its course amid mounting national challenges, its resolute rejection of merger talks is a double-edged sword – signalling both an unwavering commitment to its ideological foundations and a risky gamble in the volatile arena of Nigerian politics.
- Additional report from Osaigbovo Okungbowa, Atlantic Post Senior Political Correspondent
