The opposition party leaders convened in Abuja on Saturday, expressing concerns about the potential risks of deploying troops to the Republic of Niger in a bid to restore democracy after the recent military coup. Instead, they advocated for a diplomatic approach to resolve the political impasse in the neighboring country.
The meeting brought together several governors elected on the party's platform, the presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and his vice Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, along with members of the National Working Committee (NWC) led by the Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Damagum, and National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu.
In a communique read by Sen. Bala Mohammed, Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, at the Bauchi State Governor’s lodge in Asokoro, Abuja, the party leaders also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to trim down the number of ministers in his cabinet as they deemed 48 ministers and numerous advisers excessive, especially considering the economic hardship in the country.
Furthermore, the opposition party reiterated its commitment and support to the Presidential Candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and vowed to pursue their stolen mandate in the tribunal using lawful means.
The party also issued a stern warning against anti-party activities and sabotage within its ranks, emphasizing the need for discipline and unity. The PDP leaders reaffirmed their dedication to repositioning and stabilizing the party, emphasizing that unity and loyalty remained core values.
During the meeting, the governors and other party organs expressed unwavering support for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar as the PDP Presidential candidate and Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa as the PDP Vice Presidential Candidate. They pledged to make every lawful effort to reclaim their alleged stolen mandate through the tribunal.
However, four governors, Sim Fubara (Rivers), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Pastor Eno Umo (Akwa Ibom), and Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), were notably absent from the meeting.
Present at the meeting were Governors Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Godwin Obaseki (Edo) Kefas Agbu (Taraba), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), among others. Additionally, party leaders such as Hon. Kingsley Chinda – House Minority Leader; Taafeek Arapaja – Deputy National Chairman (South); Chief Dan Orbih – National Chairman South South; Sen Bello Gwarzo – Zonal Chairman North West; and Debo Ologunagba – National Publicity Secretary were also in attendance.