Edwin Clark Calls For Suspension Of Nigerian Governors Forum, Describes Them As ‘Notorious Cabal’

He opined that the Forum has deviated from its role and has transformed to a “notorious cabal” prioritizing political power over public service.

Speaking via an open letter released on January 13, 2025, he described the NGF as a once-noble initiative that has lost its way.

He argued that the body has 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, but instead, it has morphed into a force that undermines legislative independence,” he stated.

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.

“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”, Clark added.

He pointed out specific areas of concern which include undermining legislative independence. At the state level, Clark argued that governors have reduced state assemblies to mere extensions of executive power.

Despite his criticisms, Clark expressed hope that the NGF could be reformed. He acknowledged that critics often describe it as “a notorious cabal,” but expressed his belieg that meaningful changes could transform it into “a force for good.”