The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has clarified its stance regarding its recent silence on political issues, underscoring its commitment to remaining a neutral, policy-oriented body.
On Saturday, March 22, titled “NGF Clarifies Silence on Political Matters,” the forum explained that taking a position on partisan matters could lead to divisions among its members, who hail from various political backgrounds.
This clarification comes in light of President Bola Tinubu's recent announcement of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which has led to the six-month suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and elected representatives of the State House of Assembly.
The statement, signed by NGF Director-General Abdulateef Shittu, emphasized that the forum focuses on governance and policy issues rather than engaging in political disputes.
“The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has received numerous media inquiries inquiring about its stance on recent political events in the country,” the statement read. “The Forum wishes to clarify that it operates as an umbrella organization for state governments, advocating unified policy positions and collaborating with key stakeholders to foster sustainable socioeconomic development and enhance citizens' well-being.”
As a technical and policy-driven entity made up of governors from different political parties, the NGF has opted to refrain from taking positions that could generate discord among its members, the statement noted. Shittu remarked on the importance of unity within the forum, particularly in light of past political disagreements that have posed challenges to its cohesiveness. Nevertheless, he reassured Nigerians of the NGF’s dedication to addressing governance issues that influence economic development and public welfare.
“While remaining neutral on political matters, the Forum has consistently advocated for key governance and policy issues, such as wages, taxation, education, and universal healthcare,” Shittu stated.
Meanwhile, legal experts have voiced their concerns over President Tinubu's six-month suspension of Governor Fubara and other state officials, as well as his declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
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