Good Governance: Clark Urges NGF Suspension

Elder statesman, Pa Edwin Clark, has called for the immediate suspension of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), citing its deviation from its founding principles and its role in undermining constitutional governance.

In an open letter released on January 13, 2025, Pa Clark described the NGF as a once-noble initiative that has transformed into a “notorious cabal” prioritizing political power over public service.

However, Pa Clark argued that it has since morphed into a bloc capable of challenging the federal executive and manipulating legislative processes, thereby stifling local government autonomy.

He criticised governors for reducing state assemblies to mere extensions of their administrations and positioning themselves for Senate roles, effectively turning the chamber into a “retirement plan” rather than a body of independent thought.

“The NGF was created to serve as a bridge between tiers of government,” he stated, “but instead, it has morphed into a force that undermines legislative independence.”

Reflecting on the NGF’s origins, he described it as “born of necessity” to foster inter-state cooperation and facilitate dialogue among Nigeria’s 36 state governors.

“Let us take a reflective stroll through the years,” Pa Clark wrote, emphasizing that while the NGF had noble beginnings, it had often strayed into political posturing and power struggles.

He drew a comparison to the United States Governors’ Association, which he described as a collaborative body focused on improving governance and serving as a unified voice for state governments.

“The achievements of the U.S. model remind us of what the NGF could have been—a platform for progress rather than contention,” he asserted.

Pa Clark highlighted a troubling transformation within the NGF over the years. By the early 2010s, he noted, the forum began to act more like a political bloc capable of challenging federal authority and manipulating legislative processes. This shift, he said, has led to serious consequences for Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

“The NGF’s ability to unify State Governors under a common banner could have been its greatest strength,” but instead, it has often been wielded as a weapon against constitutional order, Pa Clark said.

He pointed out specific areas of concern which include undermining legislative independence.

At the state level, Pa Clark argued that governors have reduced state assemblies to mere extensions of executive power. “Speakers and Assembly members are handpicked by the Governors,” ensuring unwavering loyalty and stifling independent thought or dissent, he wrote.

He also expressed concern over alleged manipulation at the federal level and criticised how governors maneuver federal candidates, particularly senators, to safeguard their political interests.

“The Senate becomes a retirement plan for ex-Governors,” he lamented, highlighting how this cycle entrenches personal gain over public service.

Despite his criticisms, Clark expressed hope for reform within the NGF. He acknowledged that critics often described it as “a notorious cabal,” but he believes that meaningful changes could transform it into “a force for good.”

He said he envisions a reconstituted NGF that aligns with constitutional principles and prioritizes collaboration over control.

“Reform is not an indictment; it is an opportunity,” he emphasized, adding, “It is a chance to recalibrate, to recommit, and to rebuild.”

In conclusion, Pa Clark made an urgent appeal for action: “The NGF stands at a crossroads. Its survival—and ours—depends on its willingness to reform.”