Elder statesman Chief Edwin Clark has urged the immediate suspension and reform of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), accusing the body of undermining democracy and constitutional governance.
In an open letter to Nigerians, Clark criticised the NGF for deviating from its original purpose of fostering inter-state collaboration. He described its evolution into a powerful bloc that prioritises governors’ interests over the welfare of the people as a betrayal of its founding mission.
“The NGF began as a platform for dialogue and cooperation among governors, but it has become a cabal capable of challenging constitutional order and stifling local government autonomy,” Clark wrote.
Drawing comparisons with the U.S. Governors’ Association, Clark noted the contrast between its governance-focused mission and the NGF’s tendencies towards political manipulation. He accused the Forum of wielding undue influence over state assemblies, describing them as mere extensions of the executive, where governors handpick Speakers and Assembly members to suppress dissent and erode legislative independence.
At the federal level, Clark criticised the NGF for facilitating the transition of former governors into Senate positions, turning the legislative chamber into a “retirement haven” that undermines its role as a check on executive power.
Clark decried the NGF’s transformation from a noble vision into a power-driven entity, lamenting its departure from its founding principles. While critics have labelled the NGF a “notorious cabal,” he expressed optimism for its reform, advocating for the Forum to become a collaborative body rooted in constitutional values and good governance.
“Reform is not an indictment but an opportunity to rebuild and recommit,” Clark stated, urging the NGF to prioritise the people over politics.
In a dramatic appeal, Clark proposed suspending the Forum to prevent further crises between state and federal governments. He also emphasised the need for a thorough overhaul to realign the NGF with its founding mission.
“The NGF stands at a crossroads. Its survival depends on its willingness to embrace reform and align with the principles of democracy,” Clark concluded.
Clark’s criticism came as the NGF’s health sector expenditure and institutional review report revealed that the 36 states rely on external funding for 16 per cent of their health budgets.
The report, obtained yesterday, noted, “State governments rely on external sources, including aid, grants, and loans, for 16 per cent of their health budgets. Grant and international aid programmes were the primary sources of non-discretionary capital funding for most states, with less than a quarter opting for loans to finance their capital projects in the sector.”
