Bauchi APC split over Governor Bala Mohammed’s defection move

The Bauchi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress is divided over plans to admit Governor Bala Mohammed, exposing internal tensions ahead of potential political realignments in the state.

The disagreement emerged during a caucus meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, where party leaders expressed conflicting views on the implications of Mr Mohammed’s proposed defection.

To address the divisions, the caucus agreed to establish a high-powered committee to define its position and engage the party’s national leadership.

The Acting Secretary of the caucus, Dabo Ismail, said the panel would outline conditions for the governor’s admission and ensure that state stakeholders are not sidelined.

Mr Ismail noted that while Mr Mohammed is not being shut out, the process must reflect internal democracy and inclusiveness.

Internal tensions

Concerns over the lack of consultation dominated the meeting, with several members warning against imposing decisions from above.

The chairman of the state APC caucus and senator representing Bauchi North, Sama’ila Dahuwa, criticised what he described as inadequate engagement with key stakeholders.

“The omission is unacceptable,” Mr Dahuwa said, cautioning that bypassing local party structures could destabilise the APC in the state.

He added that the committee comprises senior party figures, including a serving minister, former governors, and senators, underscoring the importance of the issue.

The caucus also resolved to formally communicate its concerns to the APC national leadership, stressing the need for due process in the integration of new entrants.

Defection calculations

Mr Mohammed’s reported plans to defect come amid shifting alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party, Mr Mohammed had earlier indicated plans to leave the party for the African Democratic Congress as part of broader opposition realignments.

“We have found ourselves in a very serious situation… we explored all options, including even the APC, but sadly, we discovered that we are not wanted there,” Mr Mohammed had said.

However, recent political engagements have fuelled speculation of a possible shift toward the APC.

Political developments

The situation gained momentum following a closed-door meeting at the Bauchi Government House involving APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, and Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf.

The meeting heightened speculation that the APC may be reconsidering its stance and exploring pathways to bring Mr Mohammed into the party.

Meanwhile, on April 4, the governor met with loyalists and PDP stakeholders, leading the state PDP chairman, Sama’ila Burga, to form an exit committee.

Party reactions

The PDP Publicity Secretary in Bauchi, Dayyabu Chiroma, said the exit committee had three days to conclude its assignment.

“Whatever the decision is, we are with our governor… he has shaped Bauchi to a modern face, and we must stand by him,” Mr Chiroma said.

Also commenting, Yusuf Makama described the development as part of normal political dynamics.

“As politicians, we are used to the happenings… whatever political party the governor settles for should be thankful,” Mr Makama said, citing the governor’s achievements in the state.