The Progressive Governors Forum has strongly denied reports claiming that Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, was removed as chairman of the influential body, describing the reports as false, misleading, and completely baseless.
The clarification came amid growing political speculation and confusion within the ruling All Progressives Congress after reports circulated online alleging that APC governors had replaced Uzodimma during a closed door meeting in Abuja. The reports quickly generated reactions across political circles, with many interpreting the alleged development as a sign of fresh cracks within the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections.
However, in an official statement issued by the Director General of the Progressive Governors Forum, Folorunso Aluko, the forum firmly dismissed the claims and insisted that no such decision was taken at any meeting of the governors. The statement stressed that Hope Uzodimma remains the substantive chairman of the forum and continues to enjoy the confidence of APC governors across the country. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
According to the statement, the attention of the forum had been drawn to what it described as “false and misleading reports” alleging the removal of the Imo governor. The PGF emphasized that there was no record of any resolution removing Uzodimma and that no official meeting was held where such an action was discussed or approved.
The forum further urged members of the public, party supporters, and the media to disregard the reports entirely, insisting that the governors’ body remains united and focused on supporting the APC administration and advancing its political agenda ahead of future elections.
The controversy reportedly emerged after earlier reports suggested that APC governors held an extraordinary meeting in Abuja to discuss leadership changes within the Progressive Governors Forum. Some political platforms had claimed that about 20 governors attended the meeting and were considering replacing Uzodimma as part of wider internal realignments within the party structure.
The rumors gained additional attention because Uzodimma had recently been replaced as chairman of the APC National Convention Central Coordination Committee, a move some political observers interpreted as evidence of shifting power dynamics within the ruling party. However, party insiders later clarified that the convention committee adjustment was linked to zoning considerations and had no connection with his position as PGF chairman.
Hope Uzodimma has remained one of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s closest political allies within the APC and has played a prominent role in mobilizing governors and party stakeholders behind Tinubu’s second term ambition ahead of the 2027 elections. His position as chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum has made him one of the most influential figures within the ruling party’s internal power structure.
Political analysts believe the speed with which the forum denied the reports reflects the APC leadership’s determination to avoid any public perception of division or instability within the governors’ bloc. Observers note that with preparations for 2027 already intensifying, the ruling party is expected to become increasingly sensitive to reports capable of suggesting internal crisis or leadership disputes.
The latest controversy also highlights the growing tension and speculation currently shaping Nigeria’s political environment as alliances, endorsements, and strategic repositioning continue across different parties ahead of the next general elections. For now, however, the Progressive Governors Forum insists that Uzodimma remains firmly in charge and that reports of his removal exist only in rumor and political speculation.
