Funds from the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) were released to Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. These funds were subsequently moved into the financial structure of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), where questions arose over their use and accounting. A source close to the PGF said the transaction contributed to the removal of former Finance Minister Wale Edun. "It was NLNG funds that were given to the Imo governor. This was partly why the finance minister, Wale Edun, was removed," the source told SaharaReporters.
THEWILL previously reported that President Bola Tinubu intervened in a dispute within the PGF over the alleged mismanagement of over N800 billion raised by APC governors for Tinubu's re-election campaign. The conflict led to a split, with governors including Kwara's Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Ogun's Dapo Abiodun, and Enugu's Peter Mbah recognizing Mbah as the new chairman. Uzodimma, who chaired the PGF, reportedly became unresponsive when questioned about the financial details, worsening tensions.
The governors had agreed to monthly deductions from their FAAC allocations into an account managed under the Renewed Hope Ambassador (RHA) platform, created to promote federal policies ahead of the 2027 election. Uzodimma secured approval for the deductions through then Finance Minister Wale Edun. Later, a separate structure, the Renewed Hope Network (RHN), was established for campaign coordination, with plans to shift funds into its accounts. Dispute emerged when Uzodimma informed fellow governors the money had already been spent.
President Tinubu intervened during a foreign trip, holding discussions with key governors. Some funds were recovered, and efforts continued to account for the rest. Insiders linked the financial controversy to broader concerns preceding Edun's removal. The PGF later dismissed reports of Uzodimma's removal as chairman, calling them false. In a statement, Director General Folorunsho Aluko said no meeting had been held to remove him and affirmed Uzodimma remains the legitimate chairman.
Hope Uzodimma oversaw NLNG funds routed through the PGF while also securing their release via Wale Edun, who was later removed in a move tied to the same transaction. The arrangement creates a direct financial link between the governor, the ex-finance minister, and a disputed N800 billion campaign war chest. Nigerians named in the PGF leadership now face questions over dual accountability—both as public office holders and as stewards of party funds. The unresolved status of the funds and the split recognition of PGF leadership deepen confusion over who controls the money meant for the 2027 campaign.
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