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Obaseki Likely To Emerge As Next Chairman Of Govs’ Forum
There are signs that Godwin Obaseki, the governor of Edo State, may succeed Aminu Tambuwal, the governor of Sokoto State, as the PDP Governors’ Forum’s chairman.
Tambuwal is the forum’s current chairman, and his second term will conclude on May 29, 2023.
Governors of the states of Rivers, Abia, Benue, Taraba, and Enugu, respectively, Nyesom Wike, Okezie Ikpeazu, Samuel Ortom, Darius Ishaku, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, are all expected to step down on May 29.
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Obaseki, whose second term in office expires in 2024, will then become the most senior PDP governor among his colleagues.
Another governor whose name was mentioned is Makinde, but a former appointee of the Edo gov, Mr Sixtus Omokhagbor, told disclosed that Obaseki was enjoying the support of his colleagues to clinch the seat.
He said, “What the governor has done in terms of e-governance in Edo State is something to replicate in other states including non-PDP States.
“He has not gone public about the PDP Governors’ Forum thing (leadership) but the truth is that if you take a look at the governors that will be left after May 29, there is no one better for the role than Governor Obaseki.
“He will have no problem getting the support of his colleagues, particularly governors Duoye Diri, Bala Mohammed, and Seyi Makinde.”
A PDP source disclosed to ENIGERIA in confidence that Umar Damagum, the acting national chairman of the party, was trying to convince Obaseki to support the implementation of e-governance in PDP states, particularly those where new governors are expected to take office, in order to reduce the cost of doing business in those states.
“The choice of the chairman of the forum will be determined by the governors. However, I heard that with Tambuwal bowing out very soon, the position will go to the South.
“Makinde has ruled himself out of the race and promised to work with a senior colleague. That brings Obaseki in and I am sure he will get it.
“Damagum is not a member of the forum but his fatherly advice will go a long way. He sees the Edo governor as a very peaceful man, a silent worker who allows his work to speak for him.”
