Concerns Raised Over Political Stability Ahead of 2027 Elections
The Forum of Nigerian Political Professionals (FNPP), a coalition of experts engaged in partisan politics, has issued a warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding what it describes as a deliberate effort to destabilize the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
The FNPP cautioned that any actions aimed at undermining the leadership of the PGF could jeopardize the political coalition supporting the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and its New Hope Agenda.
In a statement authored by Sani Magaji, the FNPP’s national president, and Ike Chidloo, the group’s secretary, the organization characterized the situation as both “dangerous and strategic,” expressing concerns that it could weaken the political alliance currently driving the regeneration agenda across Nigeria.
PGF’s Role in Political Stability Highlighted
According to the FNPP, the PGF, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and Vice-Chairman Governor Uba Sani, has developed into “one of the strongest stabilizing political structures within the APC and a widespread regenerative hopeful political initiative across the country.”
The group noted that since Uzodimma assumed leadership, the PGF has experienced remarkable growth, increased collaboration among governors, broader coalition-building, and enhanced inclusivity. These efforts align with President Tinubu’s vision under the New Hope Agenda, creating a more cohesive and disciplined forum.
Opposition Seeks to Exploit Division Within PGF
The FNPP pointed out that opposition parties recognize the political leverage that a united and expansive PGF could provide the APC as it approaches the 2027 elections. The organization argues that this understanding drives efforts to instigate instability within the forum.
Historical Parallels Drawn Amid Current Political Climate
The FNPP referenced the removal of former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi from the leadership of the Nigeria Governors Forum as a cautionary example, likening it to events that contributed to the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) decline before the 2015 elections. The group emphasized that the APC should not repeat past mistakes.
Call for Political Unity and Focus
The group cautioned that any attempt to “destabilize, undermine, or disrupt” the current leadership of the PGF is both “politically immature and strategically risky,” potentially undermining President Tinubu’s re-election efforts in 2027.
While acknowledging that aspirations for leadership within the forum are legitimate, the FNPP stressed that “now is not the time for ego-driven calculations or internal political warfare.”
Urgent Call for Presidential Intervention
The FNPP has called on President Tinubu to take immediate action to foster unity within the APC, urging all progressive leaders to prioritize collective objectives over personal ambitions. The statement reinforced that, “No personal ambition must outweigh the collective objective of sustaining the New Hope Agenda and securing victory for the APC in 2027.”
The organization affirmed its commitment to continue and strengthen the New Hope agenda under President Tinubu’s leadership, emphasizing the importance of preserving effective institutions that stabilize the political landscape.
