The Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) has reportedly named the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, as the new chairman of the forum following the removal of Hope Uzodimma.
The development reportedly emerged after an extraordinary meeting of about 20 governors held in Abuja shortly after the submission of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presidential nomination forms.
According to THISDAY, the governors resolved to replace Uzodimma following what insiders described as a “loss of confidence” in his leadership of the forum.
According to the sources, allegations of financial mismanagement and high-handedness were raised against the Imo governor during the closed-door meeting attended physically and virtually by governors from several states.
“The governors felt the forum needed a fresh direction and a leadership style capable of restoring confidence and unity within the group,” a source reportedly said.
Following the meeting, Mbah was said to have emerged as the preferred choice to lead the forum, with several governors allegedly backing the Enugu governor because of his growing influence and administrative approach.
However, the Progressive Governors’ Forum swiftly denied reports that Uzodimma had been removed as chairman.
In a statement titled “PGF Denies False Reports of Removal of its Chairman,” the Director-General of the forum, Folorunso S. Aluko, dismissed the reports as false and misleading.
“The attention of the Progressive Governors Forum has been drawn to a false and misleading report circulating in some media platforms alleging the removal of its Chairman, His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON,” the statement read.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Progressive Governors Forum states categorically that the report is entirely false, baseless, and without an iota of truth.
“No meeting of the Forum was held at which any such decision was taken. The PGF Secretariat has no record of, and is not aware of, any resolution removing the Chairman. His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON, remains the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum.
“The Forum remains united, focused, and committed to its responsibilities. Members of the public, party faithful, and the media are therefore advised to disregard the said report in its entirety,” the statement added.
Despite the official denial, the reports have continued to stir political discussions, especially amid growing realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
