January 14th, 2024
The call for the suspension of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum has been made by elder statesman, Edwin Clark.
Clark made the call in an open letter on Monday, stating that the Forum had deviated from its original purpose of fostering collaboration.
“Let us take a reflective stroll through the years, examining how this body, initially intended as a platform for collaboration, has often strayed into the realm of power without accountability, influence without responsibility,” the letter reads.
“Critics often describe the NGF as a notorious cabal—a characterisation that is, sadly, not without merit.
“Its resistance to reforms, its penchant for secrecy, its prioritisation of power over service—all these have contributed to its reputation.”
He, however, called for the reconstitution of the forum to go in line with the constitutional principles, and serve as a true platform for collaboration rather than control.
“Let us imagine a reconstituted NGF. One that aligns with constitutional principles. One that serves as a true platform for collaboration rather than control,” Clark said.
“One that prioritises the people over politics. This is not beyond our grasp, but it requires vision and will.
“Therefore, I strongly advise the suspension of the Governors’ Forum from now in order to avert the looming crises between the various governments.”