PDP GOVERNORS DECLARE: 'NO MERGER OR COALITION FOR 2027 – WE STAND ALONE BUT WELCOME ALLIES

FULL STATEMENT:

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has firmly dismissed rumors of forming any coalition or merger ahead of the 2027 general elections. The decision was announced in a communiqué released after the Forum’s meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, emphasized that while the party remains open to collaboration with like-minded individuals and groups, it will not merge with any political bloc.

KEY RESOLUTIONS:

✔ NO MERGER, BUT OPEN TO ALLIANCES – The PDP will maintain its independence but welcomes parties, leaders, and movements committed to rescuing Nigeria and restoring good governance.

✔ ACTING NATIONAL SECRETARY – Following a Supreme Court ruling, the Deputy National Secretary will temporarily assume the role until a substantive National Secretary from the South-East is appointed.

✔ ALARM OVER INSECURITY – The Forum condemned escalating violence in Borno, Katsina, Edo, and Plateau, demanding an overhaul of Nigeria’s security framework with stronger state involvement.

✔ SUPPORT FOR GOV. FUBARA – The Forum stood in solidarity with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid his political crisis and rejected calls for a state of emergency in the state.

✔ UPCOMING CRUCIAL MEETINGS – A national meeting is scheduled for May 27, 2025, to form a Zoning Committee ahead of the PDP National Convention (August 28-30, 2025, in Kano).

✔ COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS –
- Zoning Committee Chairman: Gov. Douye Diri (Bayelsa)
- National Convention Committee Chairman: Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa)

FINAL WORD:
The PDP remains focused on reclaiming power in 2027—on its own terms.

📢 What’s your take? Should parties merge or stand alone? Drop your thoughts below!

#pdp #nigeriapolitics #2027elections #notomerger #pdpstrong

🔥 This is Akwa- Okuko' Wife behind the Husband in times of Trial - A Wife Like this is a Man’s Greatest Blessing! 🔥

Behind every strong man, there’s often a stronger woman—one who stands firm in abundance AND adversity.

To the women:
Your loyalty in his highs and lows doesn’t go unnoticed. The way you pray when he’s weak, celebrate when he wins, and hold the family together when storms hit—that’s true strength. A real queen isn’t just there for the crown; she’s there for the battles too. Keep standing. Your love rebuilds broken places. 💪👑

To the men:
If you have a woman who stays when it’s hard, believes when it’s dark, and fights for you even when you’re discouraged—CHERISH HER. She’s not just your wife; she’s your divine helper. Don’t take her for granted. Love her fiercely, lead her wisely, and never let her stand alone. 🙌❤️

Real love isn’t just about sunshine—it’s about weathering storms TOGETHER.

#powercouple #rideordie #marriagegoals #godlyunion

PROF. WOLE SOYINKA CONDEMN NBC BAN OF EEDRIS ABDULKAREEM'S LATEST SONG

A recent post on PUNCH's official X account revealed that Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has criticized the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for banning a controversial song by Nigerian artist Eedris Abdulkareem.

The track, titled "Tell Your Papa," was prohibited from all broadcast platforms in Nigeria after the NBC deemed its content offensive.

In response, Soyinka condemned the commission's decision, arguing that banning the song alone was insufficient. He sarcastically suggested that Abdulkareem himself should also be banned, along with any music associations he belongs to.

The renowned writer described the NBC's action as undemocratic, stating that censorship of this nature weakens freedom of expression.
Soyinka was quoted as saying:

"The so-called offensive song should not be the only thing banned—the artist behind it should be outlawed as well. Next, PMAN or whichever musical body Abdulkareem is part of should also face sanctions." #nbc #eedrisabdukareem #tellyourpapa

STOP THE DISCRIMINATION AGAINST HND GRADUATES – ADETOLA KAYODE URGES GOVERNMENT

In an open letter to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, broadcast journalist and HND graduate Adetola Kayode called for an end to the systemic bias against polytechnic graduates in Nigeria.

Kayode began by congratulating the minister on his new role while commending his efforts to enhance practical training in universities and upgrade polytechnics to universities of technology. However, she argued that polytechnics already offer a superior blend of theory and hands-on experience compared to universities, which traditionally focus more on theoretical learning.

"The polytechnic is where you get two in one—theoretical and practical training—while universities provide minimal practical exposure," she stated. "How then does someone with only theoretical knowledge become superior to those with both? Many of us chose polytechnics precisely because they offer more comprehensive training."

Kayode, who holds an HND in Mass Communication from The Polytechnic, Ibadan, and a Master’s from Lagos State University, dismissed the misconception that polytechnic students are there only because they couldn’t secure university admission. She revealed that she had gained admission into the University of Lagos before her polytechnic results were released but opted for the latter due to its practical advantages.

She further highlighted how the current discrimination discourages students from pursuing polytechnic education, pushing many toward desperate measures to secure university admission despite limited spaces.

Citing a Yoruba proverb, "Ìbí ò j’ùbí lọ o!" (No birth is superior to another), she emphasized that both university and polytechnic graduates should be treated equally, especially in the civil service, where HND holders face career stagnation despite further qualifications.

"Even with a Master’s degree, HND graduates are often barred from advancing beyond a certain level unless they obtain a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD)—a requirement not imposed on their university counterparts," she noted.

Kayode stressed that every profession deserves respect, as each plays a vital role in society. "A doctor cannot repair a car, just as a mechanic cannot self-administer medical treatment. Both skill sets are essential and should be valued equally."

She appealed to the Minister of Education, state governors, and legislative education committees to review and rectify the unfair treatment of HND graduates, particularly in civil service employment and promotions.

Adetola Kayode, a Hubert Humphrey Fellow and alumna of the RNTC Netherlands, reiterated that practical skills are crucial and should not be undervalued in favor of academic credentials alone.

"HND graduates possess hands-on expertise that benefits any profession. It’s time for Nigeria’s system to recognize their true worth," she concluded. #university #polytechnic #education #certificate

BREAKING: NIGERIAN FOOTBALL LEGEND, CHRISTIAN CHUKWU PASSES AWAY AT 74
Renowned former Super Eagles coach and ex-captain, Christian Chukwu, has sadly passed away at the age of 74. Reports confirm his death earlier today, though further details remain undisclosed at this time.
BIOGRAPHY OF CHRISTIAN CHUKWU
Christian Chukwu was born on January 4, 1951, in Enugu, Nigeria. He rose to prominence as a formidable defender and captain of the Nigerian national team, then known as the Green Eagles, during the 1970s and 1980s. His leadership skills and tactical intelligence earned him the nickname Chairman—a testament to his commanding presence on and off the pitch.
After an illustrious playing career, Chukwu transitioned into coaching, where he continued to shape Nigerian football. He served as head coach of the Super Eagles in the early 2000s, contributing to the development of the national team during a crucial period.
ACHIEVEMENTS WITH THE GREEN EAGLES/SUPER EAFLES
As a player, Chukwu captained the Green Eagles to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory in 1980, a historic milestone for Nigerian football. His defensive prowess and leadership were instrumental in securing the title on home soil.
As a coach, he guided the Super Eagles through various international competitions, fostering a new generation of talent. Though his tenure faced challenges, his influence on Nigerian football remained undeniable.
FALSE DEATH RUMORS IN 2021
In 2021, misinformation about Chukwu’s death spread widely, prompting him to publicly dismiss the claims during his 70th birthday celebration. At the time, he expressed frustration, stating:
I am terribly embarrassed by this news that I am dead. Several people have been calling me from across the world since the news broke. I am still investigating the source of the story.
Chukwu’s passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian football. His contributions as a player, captain, and coach have left an indelible mark on the sport, earning him a revered place in its history.
May his soul rest in peace! #christianchukwu #supereagle #nigeria