Elder statesman and leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief Edwin Clark, has called for the immediate suspension of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), alleging that it has deviated from its founding principles and lost its purpose.

In a statement titled “Our Governors’ Forum: An Open Appeal for Reform” released on Monday, Chief Clark criticized the NGF for becoming a divisive force in Nigeria’s political landscape. He argued that the forum, originally envisioned as a platform for collaboration among governors, has degenerated into “power without accountability and influence without responsibility.”

“The NGF’s potential to unify state governors under one banner could have been its greatest asset,” Clark stated. “Instead, it has often been used to undermine constitutional order. I strongly advocate for the immediate suspension of the Governors’ Forum to prevent further crises between state governments.”

Clark, a former Federal Commissioner of Information, noted that the NGF has reached a crossroads, urging it to embrace reform and recommit to democratic values. “The NGF stands at a critical juncture. Its survival—and indeed ours—depends on its willingness to reform and adhere to the principles of democracy and good governance,” he said.

He accused the NGF leadership of lacking focus and urged state governors to redeem their image. Clark lamented that while the forum once played a positive role in the country, it has now become a notorious cabal resistant to reform, secretive in its operations, and more concerned with power than service.

Clark further alleged that the NGF undermines legislative independence by turning state assemblies into mere extensions of the executive branch. According to him, governors routinely handpick Speakers and assembly members to ensure unwavering loyalty, eroding the checks and balances vital for democratic governance.

He also criticized the Senate for becoming a “retirement plan for former governors,” asserting that this cycle entrenches personal gain over public service.

“The NGF has failed to condemn critical issues, such as the crisis in Rivers State, which underscores its lack of focus and disregard for accountability,” Clark added.

Despite his criticism, Clark expressed hope for the forum’s redemption, urging governors to embrace reforms that prioritize the people’s needs over political maneuvering. “Let us envision a revitalized NGF, one that aligns with constitutional ideals and serves as a genuine platform for collaboration rather than control,” he said.

He emphasized that reform is an opportunity to recalibrate and rebuild. “This vision is within our reach, but it demands clarity of purpose and determination. Reform is not a reproach; it is an opportunity to recommit to the principles of good governance.”

Attempts to get a response from the NGF Secretariat were unsuccessful. The Director General of the NGF, Alhaji Abdullateef Shittu, did not respond to calls or messages. Meanwhile, the NGF Acting Director of Media and Public Affairs, Hajiya Halima Ahmed, stated that the Director General is the appropriate person to address the allegations.

Chief Clark’s statement has reignited calls for accountability and reform within the NGF, putting pressure on its leadership to respond to the criticisms and chart a new course for the organization.