The Forum of State Chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of using intimidation and coercion to force PDP governors, senators, and lawmakers to defect to the ruling party.
In a statement jointly signed by Dr. Tony Aziegbemi (Chairman) and Sir Edward Percy Masha (Secretary), the forum described the APC’s recent actions as “undemocratic, desperate, and systematic,” alleging that the ruling party’s conduct threatens Nigeria’s multiparty democracy.
The statement followed a crucial meeting of PDP State Chairmen held on Monday, October 14, 2025, at the party’s FCT Secretariat in Abuja. The meeting, chaired by Sir Edward Percy Masha, reviewed preparations for the upcoming National Elective Convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, and discussed the state of the opposition across the country.
“The Forum strongly condemns the All Progressives Congress (APC) for its undemocratic, desperate, and systematic efforts to intimidate, harass, and coerce PDP leaders—including governors, senators, and members of the National and State Assemblies—into defecting,” the statement read.
It further described the APC’s actions as “an assault on democracy and a dangerous step toward establishing a one-party state,” urging Nigerians to resist such tendencies.
The forum also expressed concern over internal sabotage within the PDP, accusing some members of working with external forces linked to the APC to derail the party’s convention.
Specifically, the body condemned Hon. Austine Nwachukwu (Imo State) and Hon. Amah Abraham Nnana (Abia State) for seeking a court injunction to halt the convention, labeling their actions as “a betrayal of the party’s unity.”
Both members were suspended from the forum, while Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the Edo State PDP, was appointed as the new Chairman of the PDP State Chairmen Forum.