Clark Seeks Suspension of NGF to Avert Looming Crisis in Nigeria

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

Elder statesman and prominent leader of the Niger Delta region, Chief Edwin Clark, has demanded the immediate suspension of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) to avert a looming crisis among the tiers of government in the country

Clark, who made the call in a statement yesterday, lamented that the NGF was fast becoming a cabal rather than a force for good governance.

He said, “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.

“Yet, I believe in redemption. I believe that with meaningful reforms, the NGF can become a force for good.

“Let us imagine a reconstituted NGF. One that aligns with constitutional principles. One that serves as a true platform for collaboration rather than control.

“One that prioritises the people over politics. This is not beyond our grasp, but it requires vision and will.”

Clarifying that reform was not an indictment but an opportunity, Clark said, “It is a chance to recalibrate, to recommit, and to rebuild. Will the NGF seize this moment?”

At the moment, Clark said the NGF stood at a crossroads and that, “Its survival, and ours, depends on its willingness to reform and align with the principles of democracy and good governance.

“Therefore, I strongly advise the suspension of the Governors’ Forum from now in order to avert the looming crises between the various governments.”