All Progressives Congress (APC) governors have reaffirmed their support for Hope Uzodimma as chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, easing tensions amid a reported leadership crisis. The emergency show of solidarity took place on Friday after 18 governors elected on the APC platform passed a vote of confidence on Uzodimma's leadership.
Background of the Crisis
The crisis stemmed from reports that some members of the forum had backed Peter Mbah as a potential new leader. This sparked speculations of deepening cracks within the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections and ongoing consultations over APC primaries.
Governors Unite Behind Uzodimma
Addressing journalists after a closed-door meeting at the Imo Lodge in Abuja, the governors dismissed reports of division. They insisted that the forum remained united behind Uzodimma and his deputy, Uba Sani. Governors physically present included those from Ondo, Kaduna, Sokoto, Ebonyi, Borno, Lagos, Kogi, Kano, Yobe, Kebbi, Benue, and Jigawa states. Nasarawa State was represented by its deputy governor, while the Taraba State governor briefly attended before leaving.
Vote of Confidence Moved
Nasir Idris moved the motion for a vote of confidence, declaring that there was no justification for claims of crisis or leadership change. "We don't have any problem to justify what they have said. So, I want to seek this opportunity to move a vote of confidence on our chairman and his deputy," Idris stated.
Governor Uba Sani's Remarks
Uba Sani described media reports suggesting a split in the forum as "unfortunate," insisting that APC governors remained united and firmly behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. "What I can say here is that all of us woke up with that very unfortunate story that we have virtually in all the media in Nigeria. But the truth of the matter is that the APC Progressive Governors Forum is very united. We're stronger now than at any other time. And of course, we are all supporting our President for what he has been doing. We also want to assure everyone that APC is united, governors are united, the forum is united and there is no problem at all," he said.
Uzodimma Dismisses Speculations
In his remarks, Uzodimma dismissed speculations of disunity in the ruling party, stressing that the governors were focused on governance, party cohesion, and preparations for the forthcoming elections. "Governors of the Progressive Congress are all united and resolved to support Mr President and to ensure that he comes out successfully during the upcoming elections by January 2027. So we have decided to work harder, look after our people, show performance and provide all the necessary social interventions that make Nigerians happy," he stated.
