Elder statesman and leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief Edwin Clark, has called for the immediate suspension and reform of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF). In an open letter dated January 13, 2025, Clark criticized the NGF for deviating from its original purpose of fostering inter-state cooperation and dialogue among Nigeria’s 36 state governors.
Clark expressed concern that the NGF has transformed into a powerful bloc capable of challenging the federal executive, manipulating legislative processes, and obstructing local government autonomy. He accused the Forum of reducing state assemblies to mere extensions of the executive, with governors handpicking speakers and assembly members to ensure unwavering loyalty, thereby undermining legislative independence.
At the federal level, Clark highlighted the trend of governors maneuvering themselves into the Senate, turning it into a “retirement plan” for ex-governors, which he believes compromises the Senate’s role as a chamber of independent thought.
Describing the NGF as a “notorious cabal” prioritizing power over service, Clark nonetheless expressed hope for its transformation. He called for the Forum’s suspension and reconstitution to realign it with constitutional principles, advocating for a platform that promotes collaboration rather than control and prioritizes the people’s interests over politics.
Clark’s call for reform is not unprecedented. In 2013, he labeled the NGF a “threat to Nigeria’s democracy,” accusing it of breaching the constitution with impunity and acting as an opposition to the federal government.
He urges the Forum to embrace reform as an opportunity to recalibrate, recommit, and rebuild, warning that failure to do so could lead to further governance crises.
Peoplesmind
