PDP Youth Alliance Calls on Governors to Defend Democracy Amid Rivers State Crisis

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Youth Alliance has penned an open letter to the PDP Governors Forum (PDPGF), urging immediate action to challenge what they describe as a threat to Nigeria’s democracy stemming from recent political developments in Rivers State. The letter, dated March 19, 2025, and addressed to the forum’s chairman, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, called for a united front to resist what the group perceives as the unconstitutional removal of Rivers State’s democratically elected leadership.

The author of the letter, Hon. Wisdom Kieribo, Coordinator of the PDP Youth Alliance in Bayelsa State and Chairman for the South-South region, expressed deep concern over the political situation in Rivers State and its broader implications for Nigeria’s democratic stability. Kieribo emphasized that the PDP Governors Forum, as the leading opposition structure in the country, holds a critical responsibility in safeguarding the nation’s democratic values.

Central to the Youth Alliance’s appeal is the application of Section 305 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended), which grants the President the power to declare a state of emergency in certain situations. The group contends that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s invocation of this section in Rivers State undermines the rule of law and strips the people of their right to democratically elected leadership. The Youth Alliance called on the PDP Governors Forum to challenge this action at the Supreme Court, arguing that failure to do so could set a dangerous precedent for future political interventions.

Kieribo underscored that this issue transcends Rivers State and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, framing it as a broader struggle for democracy and constitutional order. He stressed that Nigeria’s hard-won democracy cannot be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency, urging the PDP governors to leverage their collective influence to resist what he described as “political rascality and constitutional misapplication.”

The letter warned that allowing such actions to stand could embolden further political interference, potentially threatening democratic institutions across the country. Kieribo drew parallels to the resistance against the third-term agenda in 2007, highlighting the importance of standing on the right side of history.

Additionally, the Youth Alliance reiterated its readiness to support the PDP Governors Forum in any legitimate action aimed at defending democracy, pledging unwavering commitment to the cause. The letter concluded by emphasizing the crucial role of opposition in any democracy, noting that alternative political ideologies and dissenting voices are vital for a healthy democratic process.

Copies of the letter were sent to all PDP governors, signaling the Youth Alliance’s intention to rally support across party lines. As the situation in Rivers State continues to unfold, the PDP’s response could shape not only the future of the state but also Nigeria’s broader democratic landscape.