PDP Governors Condemn APC for Economic Mismanagement, Back Minimum Wage Increase and Fubara

Governors from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) have criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for its handling of Nigeria’s economy, claiming it has caused significant hardship for citizens. The governors also voiced support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and called for a swift resolution of the ongoing minimum wage negotiations.

During their meeting in Enugu, hosted by Governor Peter Mbah, the PDP governors discussed several critical issues and released a communique detailing their positions:

1. Electoral Integrity: The governors warned against presidential interference in the upcoming off-season governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states. They urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure transparent, fair, and violence-free elections.
2. Economic Mismanagement: The governors expressed grave concern over the state of the economy, blaming the APC-led federal government for mismanagement. They highlighted the erosion of economic gains achieved during PDP’s 16 years in power, including low inflation rates and the establishment of anti-corruption institutions.
3. Minimum Wage Negotiations: The PDP governors called for expedited negotiations on the minimum wage increase, supporting labor’s demand for a substantial raise. They emphasized the need to consider the ability to pay by local, state, and federal governments.
4. Support for Governor Fubara: The forum expressed strong support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid the political crisis in Rivers State. They committed to finding a peaceful resolution through wider consultations with stakeholders.
5. Local Government Autonomy: The governors welcomed the Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy and pledged to support its implementation. They stressed that the process should be handled in a way that maintains trust between federal and sub-national governments.

The meeting, chaired by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, saw the attendance of 12 out of the 13 PDP governors, including Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Umo Eno (Akwa-Ibom), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Godwin Obaseki (Edo), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), and the host governor, Peter Mbah. Other notable attendees were Senator Adolphus Wabara, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, and Dr. Babangida Aliyu.