Follow Us on Google
From Paul Orude, Bauchi
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has disclosed that he is at the final stage of consultations to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), with a formal announcement expected on Thursday.
The governor made this known on Monday shortly after a closed-door meeting with a high-powered delegation led by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal in Bauchi.
Mohammed, who also chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, expressed appreciation to the leadership of the ADC for the recognition extended to him, noting that his decision followed exhaustive but unsuccessful efforts to reconcile warring factions within the PDP.
“I have pursued all avenues for reconciliation, but it has not worked. Our people are putting me under extreme pressure,” he said.
He revealed that two committees were set up, one at the national level in Abuja and another in Bauchi, to explore political options, including a possible move to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, he said those efforts did not yield results.
“Sadly, we have discovered that we cannot remain where we are not wanted. We must find a place within the opposition where our destiny aligns,” he added.
The governor further alleged that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, frustrated attempts at genuine reconciliation within the PDP, as well as efforts to facilitate his entry into the APC.
Other News
“I even met with Mr President three times to initiate reconciliation, but it didn’t work because certain individuals insisted on having their way,” he stated.
Mohammed described the ADC as a more acceptable platform for opposition forces currently in talks with him, adding that discussions have been productive and are nearing conclusion.
“We are very cautious of the timeline. Everything will be concluded by Thursday so that we can move forward together without being left out,” he said.
Reaffirming his political stance, the governor noted that he has always thrived in opposition politics and remains undeterred ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We will do all we can for self-preservation. The ADC presents an existential solution, and we will not let this opportunity slip,” he declared.
Earlier, Babachir Lawal said the delegation was sent by the ADC National Chairman, David Mark, to engage the Bauchi governor as part of broader efforts to unite opposition forces ahead of 2027.
He stressed that only a united front of well-meaning Nigerians could successfully challenge the current administration, warning of dire consequences if the status quo persists beyond 2027.
Lawal described Governor Mohammed as a “fearless fighter” whose entry into the ADC would strengthen the party’s position, adding that their discussions in Bauchi were fruitful and marked by mutual understanding of the political challenges ahead.
