The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has issued a stern warning to President Bola Tinubu’s administration, urging a complete review of the country’s economic policies. The governors made it clear that without changes to these policies, they believe no meaningful progress can be achieved at the state level, regardless of efforts made by state governments.
In a hard-hitting communique released at the end of their first monthly meeting for 2025, held in Asaba, Delta State, the forum emphasized that the policies currently in place have inflicted severe hardships on Nigerians, undermining the potential for state-level successes.
The communiqué, which was read by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, highlighted key concerns regarding the federal government’s macro-economic policies. The governors noted that these policies had caused immense hardship and hindered state governments’ ability to achieve impactful development goals.
“No Progress Without Change”
“We cannot achieve anything meaningful in our states as long as these harsh policies continue to plague the nation,” Governor Mohammed stated during the briefing. “The suffering is evident, and no matter how much effort is invested at the state level, national policies must support development, not hinder it.”
The forum went on to specifically call for the federal government to either revisit or completely overhaul its current economic policies, including those related to taxation, subsidies, and welfare. The governors argued that these policies, which they say have caused a sharp rise in the cost of living and a general decline in living standards, must be reformed if any substantive progress is to be made in the country’s economic landscape.
“Until the pain inflicted by these policies is addressed, no progress can be made in our states,” Governor Mohammed added. “Our people are suffering, and it is our duty as leaders to address their grievances, not just at the state level, but also in advocating for the necessary reforms at the federal level.”
Review of National and State Challenges
The communiqué also touched on broader national challenges, including security, infrastructure, and governance issues that the country faces. While acknowledging the efforts of state governors to implement policies aimed at alleviating hardships in their respective states, the forum underscored the difficulty of implementing large-scale projects when the national economic policies undercut such efforts.
“The past year saw monumental challenges across the nation—economic distress, security issues, and infrastructure deficiencies,” the communiqué stated. “However, we commend our governors for their efforts in improving living conditions, empowering the people, and setting the groundwork for sustainable development despite these national setbacks.”
The meeting in Asaba, which was attended by the governors of states like Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Delta, reflected a collective frustration with the federal government’s handling of the economy. These concerns have been brewing for some time, with PDP governors repeatedly calling for a shift in economic policy direction to better serve the needs of Nigerians.
Security Concerns and Call for National Unity
Apart from the economic issue, the forum also expressed deep concerns about the state of national security. The governors commended the Nigerian military and security forces for their ongoing efforts to combat insecurity across the country. However, they raised alarm about the growing influence of non-state actors and the resurgence of criminal groups that have been destabilizing various regions.
“The government must take more decisive action to strengthen our security apparatus,” Governor Fubara, Vice Chairman of the forum, said. “The continued rise in insecurity is a national threat that cannot be ignored, and we must rally together to ensure the safety of our citizens.”
The governors also called on the federal government to provide more support to state governments, particularly in the fight against insecurity, which has left communities vulnerable to attacks.
“The federal government must do more to equip states with the tools they need to tackle these security challenges. We cannot do it alone,” Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State said in his remarks.
Unity within the PDP
Amid these pressing national issues, the forum also took the opportunity to address the internal dynamics of the PDP. In particular, the forum reaffirmed its support for the ruling of the Court of Appeal concerning the dispute within the party over the position of National Secretary.
“We are pleased with the resolution of the leadership crisis within our party. Our focus now is on ensuring that the proper steps are taken to implement the Court’s decision effectively and ensure stability within the party moving forward,” Governor Mohammed stated.
In the same breath, the forum advised the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP to reschedule the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting to March 13, 2025, and to ensure that all legal requirements are met in convening this crucial meeting.
Optimism for the Future
In spite of the challenging national landscape, the governors urged Nigerians to remain hopeful. They expressed confidence that the PDP would continue to fight for a better Nigeria, one that would return to the “glorious days of pre-2015” when costs of living were more manageable, security was prioritized, and the nation was united in its pursuit of progress.
“Despite the overwhelming challenges, we must not lose hope,” Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State stated. “The PDP remains steadfast in its commitment to securing a better future for all Nigerians. We will work tirelessly to restore the unity, prosperity, and security that our people deserve.”
Looking Ahead
With the situation in the country growing more dire by the day, the PDP Governors’ Forum is clearly pushing for significant changes, both in the way the federal government approaches its policies and how the nation’s security issues are handled. The call for reforms, particularly concerning economic policy, represents a united front from the PDP governors, who believe that the path forward lies in tackling these critical issues head-on.
