PDP Governors Forum Calls for Transparency, Condemns Federal Government Actions in Jalingo Meeting

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum convened for its fourth meeting of the year at the Government House in Jalingo, Taraba State. Chaired by the Governor of Bauchi State, Sen. Bala Mohammed, the meeting brought together PDP governors to discuss critical issues affecting their states and the nation at large. 

At the end of the session, the Forum issued a communique highlighting several key resolutions.

The Forum welcomed the end of the #EndBadGovernance protests, which had escalated toward a potential national crisis. The governors commended their PDP counterparts for their adept handling of the situation, which prevented the protests from being hijacked by hoodlums and other unscrupulous elements. 

The Forum reiterated that peaceful protests are a fundamental right of citizens to express their grievances. 

They also extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives during the protests and urged the Federal Government to ensure a fair and speedy trial for those arrested.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the Federal Government's approach to managing economic and social policies, the Forum criticized what they termed "blackmail" tactics aimed at the state governments. 

The PDP governors called on President Muhammadu Buhari to exhibit statesmanship by refraining from blaming sub-national governments for economic challenges, urging instead for a comprehensive review of policies to provide relief to suffering Nigerians. 

The Forum pledged their unwavering support to the Nigerian masses and vowed to take legitimate steps to alleviate their hardships.

Regarding the ongoing political impasse in Rivers State, the PDP Governors Forum voiced its support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, criticizing the use of court judgments to influence the outcomes of party congresses. 

The Forum urged the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP to revisit the Rivers State congress to address what they termed an anomaly and ensure Governor Fubara assumes his rightful leadership position in the state party structure.

In anticipation of the forthcoming governorship election in Edo State, the Forum condemned statements allegedly made by President Buhari indicating a bias in favor of his party, as well as reports of intimidation of PDP supporters by the Nigerian Police. 

The Forum called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure that law enforcement officers remain neutral and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.

The communique also addressed concerns about the Federal Government's handling of national revenue. The PDP governors criticized the lack of clarity in distinguishing between Federal Government revenue and Federation revenue, which they asserted should be allocated according to existing laws. 

The Forum called for greater transparency from the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Accountant General of the Federation, advocating for a separation of the roles of Accountant General of the Federation and Accountant General of the Federal Government to ensure compliance with constitutional mandates.

The Forum concluded by expressing gratitude to Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State for hosting the meeting and commended the state's efforts to deliver democratic dividends to its citizens, in line with the PDP's governance philosophy.