Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State has been re-elected chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF).

Amaechi won by 19-16 votes defeating the consensus candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Plateau State Governor, Air Commodore Jonah David Jang.

The governor of Gombe state was absent at the election.

Jang, a late entrant into the race was put forward today by the Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF), following the withdrawal of both Governor Isa Yuguda of Bauchi state and Governor Ibrahim Shema of Katsina State from the chairmanship race.

A press statement released by Amaechi shortly after the election read: “Today our democracy was tested and proven. Democracy is about participation. The aim of democratic governance is for everyone to partake in winning.

“Today the governors have spoken with one voice reaffirming our faith in democratic governance as the hope of Nigeria’s future. I must thank my colleagues for their tenacity and determination to ensure the unity of the forum but more importantly of our nation.

“We remain committed to supporting our leader, the president and commander in chief of the armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to realize the development dream of all Nigerians by reducing tension, uncertainty and insecurity in our beloved country.

 “We want to pledge our steadfastness and resolve working alongside Mr. President to better the lives of our people as we render transparent and accountable stewardship.

“Finally our thanks go to all those who have patiently endured these times especially our constituents and members of the fourth estate of the realm who have followed these elections with keen interest. We promise that we will not betray the confidence you have reposed in us. Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, CON, Governor, Rivers State”