The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has come under heavy criticism following its recent statement condemning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The Forum, led by Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, had issued a strong-worded statement on Wednesday, describing the President’s actions as “unfair, divisive, and a grave threat to Nigeria’s democracy.”
The PDP governors also accused President Tinubu of failing to hold Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, accountable for his alleged role in the political crisis in Rivers State.
However, the Forum’s stance has sparked a wave of negative reactions across political and public circles, with many accusing the PDP governors of politicizing a security situation and ignoring the complex dynamics that led to the emergency declaration.
Critics argue that the PDP Governors’ Forum is more interested in protecting party interests than ensuring peace and stability in Rivers State.
Some have accused the governors of turning a blind eye to Governor Fubara’s alleged failings in handling the state’s escalating political crisis, which saw attempts at impeachment and widespread unrest.
A prominent legal analyst, Barrister Kayode Abiodun, faulted the Forum’s position, stating that “while the declaration of a state of emergency is a serious step, the PDP governors should approach the matter with objectivity rather than political bias. The security of lives and property should come first.”
Similarly, a coalition of civil society organizations in Abuja criticized the PDP governors for “failing to present viable solutions to the crisis and instead fueling partisan sentiments.”
On social media, public opinion has been sharply divided. While some users praised the PDP governors for standing up to what they termed “executive overreach,” others described the Forum’s statement as “tone-deaf” and “misguided.”
One commentator said on social media “Bold step”, another said “So these people still exist?
Meanwhile, the presidency has yet to officially respond to the PDP Governors’ Forum, though presidential aides have privately dismissed the statement as “politically motivated and lacking in substance.”
As the political temperature rises, observers are watching closely to see if the PDP governors will follow through on their vow to challenge President Tinubu’s actions in court, and how the judiciary will interpret the constitutionality of the state of emergency and the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State.
