PDP Governors Warn Against Presidential Interference in Edo and Ondo Elections

 In a recent meeting held in Enugu, governors elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) banner issued a strong warning against any presidential interference in the upcoming off-season governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states. They also criticized the federal government, led by the All Progressives Congress (APC), for what they described as poor performance, and praised PDP governors for their innovative developmental efforts across the country.

The meeting, attended by 12 out of the 13 PDP governors, expressed support for the embattled Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and called for a swift negotiation of a new minimum wage.

Senator Bala Mohammed, chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and governor of Bauchi State, presented the communique. He emphasized that all parties must ensure campaigns are issue-based, violence-free, and comply with the Electoral Act. The governors urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure transparent and fair elections, warning against any bias.

The governors expressed deep concern over the state of the economy, blaming the APC-led government for mismanagement. They highlighted the contrast with the PDP’s tenure, which they claimed brought significant development and lower inflation. They assured Nigerians of a better future under PDP leadership, promising to return to power in 2027 and restore the nation’s economic stability.

The forum voiced displeasure over the prolonged minimum wage negotiations amid extreme hardship. They called on the federal government to expedite the process, while also considering the financial capabilities of local governments.

The governors pledged their support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid the ongoing crisis in Rivers State. They committed to seeking a political solution and ensuring peace within the state.

Welcoming the Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy, the governors promised continued support but urged careful implementation to maintain trust between federal and sub-national governments.

The forum praised Dr. Peter Mbah, the host governor, for his efforts in uniting the party in Enugu State and the entire South Eastern zone. They lauded his achievements and the major projects undertaken in the state.

Governors who attended the meeting included Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers State), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Umo Eno (Akwa-Ibom), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Godwin Obaseki (Edo), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), and the host, Peter Mbah.

The PDP governors’ forum underscored the urgency of addressing the nation’s economic and security challenges and reiterated their commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians through responsible governance.