The Chairman of the Governors Forum for the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Bala Mohammed Abdulkadir, has reaffirmed the Forum’s backing of Rivers State Governor Similaye Fubara as the leader of the PDP in the state.

Bala Mohammed emphasized that, as the foremost PDP member in Rivers State, the governor must be given control over the party’s structure.

Speaking to journalists after meeting with a delegation of the National Working Committee (NWC) at the Governor’s Office in Bauchi, Mohammed mentioned a fruitful discussion with the NWC delegation, led by National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Ajibade SAN, alongside five others.

“We had extensive discussions on the PDP’s legacy, its historical significance, the reshaping of national development during our 16 years in government, and the reinforcement of our core values.”

“Our values include good governance, respect for the rule of law, unity of the country, and providing a stable platform for sustainable democracy for our nation.”

“We also discussed the collaboration needed between the PDP Governors Forum and the NWC to resolve ongoing issues, including litigation.”

He added, “We unanimously agreed on upholding the rule of law, and the delegation expressed strong support for the position of the PDP Governors Forum in Rivers State.”

According to him, “In Rivers State, where we don’t have the established tradition, it is only right for any governor from the party to be the party leader and control the structure for sustainability.”

He expressed gratitude to the NWC and discussed some unresolved legal matters, saying the Governors Forum had asked the delegation to convey their thanks to the Acting National Chairman.

“We insisted that committees on reconciliation and disciplinary matters should work through consensus to avoid creating any internal conflict.”

He further stated, “We support the North Central Zone producing the next National Chairman of the party. Precedents were set when Ahmed Mu’azu succeeded Bamanga Tukur, followed by Ali Modu Sheriff.”

“In fairness, the North Central should be allowed to complete its term. That’s justice, fairness, and what the PDP stands for.”

Looking ahead, he assured them that the PDP Governors Forum will continue meeting regularly to discuss unity and party development. “We also plan to engage with structures like the Former Governors Forum and the Former Ministers Forum.”

“By the time PDP emerges from the current challenges, we will be prepared, Insha Allah, to take over the country’s leadership in 2027 and build on the progress from our 16 years in power, interrupted by the wasteful years of the APC.”