The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF) has announced plans for the Party’s upcoming National Convention as part of efforts to consolidate internal democracy and strengthen its position as Nigeria’s leading opposition.

 

This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Forum’s 7th meeting of 2025, held on Saturday in Gusau, Zamfara State.

 

The Forum, which deliberated extensively on the state of the nation, security challenges, and the revival of the PDP, expressed gratitude to members and supporters for their loyalty despite what it described as intimidation and anti-democratic practices by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during the August 9 nationwide bye-election.

 

Commending the resilience of PDP leaders in overcoming orchestrated defections, the Governors insisted that such distractions cannot erode the Party’s strong grassroots base or dampen Nigerians’ yearning for good governance, affordable living, and relative security as experienced under past PDP-led administrations.

 

Reaffirming its commitment to the resolutions of the 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in July, the Forum pledged to resist attempts by anti-party forces to derail the forthcoming National Convention, describing it as crucial for restoring the PDP’s unity and national relevance.

 

On national issues, the PDP-GF decried what it termed the APC’s “divisive governance style,” blaming it for worsening hardship and insecurity. While commending Zamfara State’s efforts in curbing banditry, the Governors condemned continued killings in Katsina, Plateau, Niger, Benue, and other states, urging the Federal Government to do more to protect lives and property.

 

The Forum also strongly condemned the alleged militarisation of the August 9 bye-election, citing irregularities, vote-buying, and violence, while calling on Nigerians to remain vigilant in defending their votes.

 

In their closing remarks, the PDP Governors thanked the Government and people of Zamfara for their hospitality, congratulated Governor Dauda Lawal on his achievements in infrastructure, education, health, and social services, and commiserated with the state over the passing of the Emir of Gusau. They also extended condolences to Oyo State on the death of its traditional rulers.

 

The meeting, attended by PDP governors from across the country, reinforced the Party’s resolve to defend democracy and provide inclusive leadership.