Behind Closed Doors: Why Uzodinma May Lose PGF Chairmanship Over Tinubu Drama

Sources who spoke to Nigerian Tribune alleged that tension emerged after Tinubu’s Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for the All Progressives Congress were submitted by the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodinma.

According to the report, Uzodinma reportedly took the forms to Vice President Kashim Shettima, after which both men proceeded to the APC national secretariat to submit them.

Investigations reportedly revealed that some operatives within the Presidential Villa were uncomfortable with Shettima’s visible involvement in the process, believing it created the impression that the debate surrounding his place on the 2027 ticket had already been resolved.

The report claimed that Shettima’s appearance at the submission venue triggered concerns among some presidency insiders, leading to moves aimed at testing Uzodinma’s loyalty to the administration.

Sources also alleged that Uzodinma attempted to involve Senate President Godswill Akpabio in the submission process, but Akpabio reportedly declined, saying he was heading to plenary.

The development was said to have sparked an unsuccessful attempt by some members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum to remove Uzodinma as chairman before President Tinubu reportedly intervened.

According to insiders, the intention was not necessarily to remove the Imo State governor completely but to “shake him small” over the incident.

Although there were later reports of inquiries linked to funds associated with the PGF, sources claimed the real issue was the vice president’s participation in the nomination form submission.

One source said, “The involvement of the vice president in the form submission process made things look as if the president had settled for him, whereas discussions were ongoing at the time.

“Some sources believed that the Imo governor might have taken a deliberate step to create that impression, and it was decided that he should be investigated.”

The report further stated that Uzodinma’s actions were eventually viewed as an “inadvertent error,” leading to a decision to spare him from further sanctions.

Sources also claimed President Tinubu may now be leaning towards retaining Shettima as his running mate, although consultations were still ongoing before a final decision is made.

The controversy surrounding Uzodinma was also reportedly linked to the political tension involving Siminalayi Fubara and his camp in Rivers State.

According to the report, Fubara initially faced challenges during the APC screening process but was eventually cleared to participate in the primaries, despite claims that the process favoured candidates loyal to other political interests.

Sources suggested that with tensions easing around the Uzodinma issue, Fubara’s camp may also begin to experience some relief.