The Forum of State Chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress of mounting pressure on PDP governors, senators, and lawmakers to defect through intimidation and coercion.
In a strongly worded statement jointly signed by Dr Tony Aziegbemi, its new Chairman, and Sir Edward Percy Masha, Secretary, the Forum described the APC’s alleged actions as “desperate, undemocratic, and systematic,” warning that such tendencies threaten Nigeria’s democracy.
The statement followed a crucial meeting held on Monday, October 14, 2025, at the PDP FCT Secretariat, Abuja, where the forum deliberated on issues affecting the unity and stability of the party, as well as preparations for its forthcoming National Elective Convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025.
The PDP chairmen accused the APC of waging an orchestrated campaign of harassment and inducement targeted at PDP leaders across the federation, with the intention of weakening the opposition and turning Nigeria into a one-party state.
“The Forum strongly condemns the All Progressives Congress for its undemocratic and desperate efforts to intimidate, harass, and coerce PDP leaders—including governors, senators, and members of the National and State Assemblies—into defecting,” the statement read in part.
It warned that the ruling party’s alleged conduct was “a dangerous step toward establishing a de facto one-party state,” urging Nigerians to resist any attempt to erode democratic pluralism.
The Forum also expressed concern over internal sabotage by some PDP members accused of working with external interests to disrupt the party’s upcoming convention.
Two members—Hon Austine Nwachukwu of Imo State and Hon Amah Abraham Nnana of Abia State—were named and condemned for allegedly seeking a court injunction to halt the convention.
Their actions, the Forum said, amounted to a betrayal of the party’s unity and collective resolve. Consequently, both members were suspended, while Dr Tony Aziegbemi of Edo State was appointed as the new Chairman of the PDP State Chairmen Forum.
The Forum reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening internal democracy within the PDP and ensuring a successful national convention that would reposition the party ahead of future elections.
