Bauchi Gov refutes Jonathan VP rumours, says he’s focused on senate bid

Bauchi governor Bala Mohammed has dismissed reports linking him to a potential vice-presidential slot alongside former President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that his political ambition remains strictly focused on a senatorial contest.

The clarification follows social media claims suggesting that Governor Mohammed was being considered as a running mate after a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party allegedly adopted former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate during a convention in Abuja.

Reports had circulated that Mr Jonathan was picked as the faction’s flag bearer at a special national convention reportedly organised by a PDP group led by Kabiru Turaki, although the former president was not physically present at the event.

The speculation further intensified after an African Democratic Congress chieftain, Nuhu Sada, suggested on social media that Governor Mohammed could be paired with Mr Jonathan for the 2027 presidential race.

“Ignore the rumours” — Mohammed clarifies position

Reacting via his verified X handle on Sunday, Mr Mohammed dismissed the reports as false and urged the public to disregard them.

He stated that his political focus remains on the Bauchi South Senatorial District under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

“Thank you for your interest in my political aspirations. However, for the sake of clarity, my focus remains firmly on contesting for the Bauchi South Senatorial District seat under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM),” Mr Mohammed clarifies.

He further warned against misinformation regarding his political future, describing the reports as speculative and inaccurate.

“Any reports suggesting a different political course should be disregarded as speculative and inaccurate,” he added.

Background

Mr Mohammed’s clarification comes amid ongoing political realignments within Nigeria’s opposition landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, with multiple defections, alliances, and internal party disputes shaping early political calculations.

The governor was recently linked to the Peoples Democratic Party before reports emerged of his move to the Allied Peoples Movement, further fueling speculation about his long-term political direction.

Analysts say such rumours reflect the fluid nature of Nigeria’s pre-election politics, where alliances and ticket considerations often shift months before official nominations.