FGF Tackles Onaiwu Over Parallel Ex-Governors Forum

The Former Governors Forum (FGF) has distanced itself from a purported move to inaugurate a new body for ex-governors in the country by one Earl Osaro Onaiwu, describing the move as “mischievous, misleading and obnoxious.”

In a statement issued by the chairman of the Forum and former governor of Niger State, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, the Forum of Former Governors said it had been inundated with enquiries regarding a press release allegedly issued by Onaiwu, who identified himself as “National Coordinator” of the parallel group.

“The Secretariat of the Former Governors Forum has been receiving enquiries about a press release by one Earl Osaro Onaiwu ‘National Coordinator’ announcing the formation of Former Governors Forum and its proposed inaugural meeting scheduled for a later date.”

Reacting to the development, the former Governor Babangida Aliyu-led Forum dismissed the move, questioning the legitimacy of such action by an individual it said had never held office as a governor.

“This is mischievous, misleading and obnoxious to say the least. A private individual who has never been an elected governor conveying a Forum of distinguished elected leaders in Nigeria!” Aliyu said.

The FGF emphasised that it is not a new body, noting that it has been in existence for over a decade, explaining that the Forum was established with a mandate focused on the welfare of former elected governors and the promotion of national unity.

“As many Nigerians are aware, the Forum has been in existence for more than a decade. The Forum was inaugurated and registered by Nigerian leaders led by His Excellency Sen. Jim Nwobodo, former governor of the old Anambra state as far back as 2011, with the welfare of former elected governors and the promotion of national unity as its core objective,” the statement read

The Forum further highlighted its inclusive structure, stating that its membership cuts across former governors, including past presidents and vice presidents who previously served as civilian governors and now act as Trustees of the FCF.

“As a body with a national objective, the body has been carrying along members across the board, including past presidents and vice presidents who are former civilian governors and are Trustees of the Forum,” it added.

Aliyu reaffirmed the group’s commitment to its founding objectives, insisting that the leadership remains focused on promoting unity and the welfare of its members.

“As the current Chairman, we have been unwavering in the commitment towards the promotion of the key objective,” he said.

The Secretariat also disclosed that it has commenced efforts to trace the source of the controversial press release, vowing to take necessary action.

“The Secretariat will continue in its inquiries to know the source of the deceitful press release and take appropriate steps,” the statement concluded.