Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara was noticeably absent on Monday as governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) met in Ibadan, Oyo State, to discuss pressing national issues, and to restate their stand against merger plans ahead of the 2027 general election.

The meeting, held behind closed doors, was chaired by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who also serves as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum.

Present were Governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Peter Mbah (Enugu), as well as the Deputy Governors of Akwa Ibom and Delta States.

In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the Forum dismissed speculations about any potential merger or coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, reiterating the PDP’s stance as an independent political force.

“The PDP will not enter into any coalition or merger,” the statement read. “However, as a major opposition party, we welcome individuals, groups, and parties committed to rescuing Nigeria and delivering good governance.”

The governors also expressed solidarity with Governor Fubara, who has been at the centre of political controversy following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the appointment of retired naval chief Ibok-Ete Ibas as administrator.

Raising concerns over rising insecurity, the governors cited worsening conditions in Borno, Katsina, Edo, and Plateau States. They called for a bottom-up security reform, advocating increased roles for state and local governments in safeguarding lives and property.

The Forum announced plans to hold a national meeting on 27 May 2025, during which a Zoning Committee will be constituted ahead of the PDP’s national convention, scheduled to take place in Kano from 28 to 30 August 2025.

Governor Diri was named Chairman of the Zoning Committee, while Governor Fintiri will lead the National Convention Committee.