PDP Rules Out Merger Ahead of 2027, Sets Convention Date for August

 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has announced that the party will not merge or form a coalition with any other political party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

Chairman of the forum and Governor of Bauchi State, Muhammed Bala, made this declaration on Monday after the forum’s meeting held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

 

Reading the communiqué, Bala stated that while the PDP would not join any coalition or merger, it remains open to welcoming other parties, associations, or groups willing to join forces to secure victory and promote quality leadership in 2027.

 

He emphasized that the PDP remains a major opposition party and would continue to strengthen itself internally.

 

Speaking on internal party matters, Bala reaffirmed the forum’s stance—earlier taken in Asaba—on the issue of the party’s National Secretary. He said the forum has resolved to recommend the party’s Publicity Secretary to act as National Secretary, pending the official nomination and ratification of a substantive secretary from the South East zone by the NEC at its next meeting.

 

The forum also announced its intention to approach the Supreme Court for clarity on the legal interpretation concerning the declaration of a State of Emergency in any state.

 

In this regard, Bala expressed solidarity with Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, condemning the political turmoil in the state and vowing continued support for him.

 

On national issues, the governors raised concerns over the worsening security in some parts of the country, particularly Borno, Plateau, Katsina, and Edo states. The forum called for a review of security priorities and strategies to ensure greater safety for all Nigerians.

 

The forum also sympathized with the people of Plateau over the recent deadly attacks in the state.

 

Bala further revealed that the party’s NEC meeting will be held on May 27, in agreement with the National Working Committee (NWC) and other party organs. During that meeting, zoning committees will be formed to address issues related to party offices.

 

Finally, he announced that the PDP’s national convention will take place on August 20, continuing through the 29th and 30th, in the ancient city of Kano.

 

Governors present at the meeting included Peter Mbah (Enugu), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa), and Douye Diri (Bayelsa).

 

Delta and Akwa Ibom States were represented by their deputies, Monday Onyeme and Senator Akon Eyakenyi, respectively.