Bauchi Governor Plans Defection, Confirms Talks with Obi, Kwankwaso

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has said he will soon announce his next political move after holding consultations across party lines, indicating that a defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is imminent.

Speaking in a recent interview, the governor confirmed that discussions are ongoing with multiple political stakeholders as he weighs his options ahead of the next general elections. He said a final decision on his political platform would be made public within a week.

The development follows internal disputes within the PDP, which were worsened by the Supreme Court’s decision to nullify the party’s national convention held in Ibadan. Mohammed said his camp has accepted the ruling but noted that it has created uncertainty within the party’s structure.

He explained that while the PDP’s Board of Trustees is expected to take interim charge, time constraints make it difficult to stabilise the party before the elections. According to him, this has prompted consultations with other parties to secure viable platforms for his supporters.

Mohammed disclosed that he had engaged with both ruling and opposition figures in recent weeks. Efforts by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to bring him into its fold reportedly broke down due to disagreements over control of party structures in Bauchi State.

He also confirmed contact with opposition leaders, including Rabiu Kwankwaso and Peter Obi, as part of broader discussions on possible alliances. However, he noted that forming a unified opposition remains complex due to differing political interests across regions.

Addressing his personal political ambition, the governor ruled out a presidential bid, citing an internal agreement to zone the position to the southern region. Instead, he announced plans to contest the Bauchi South senatorial seat.

Mohammed also criticised the role of some party figures in the PDP crisis, accusing them of undermining the party from within. Despite this, he maintained that his group remains committed to democratic principles while seeking a practical path forward.

He urged his supporters to remain calm, assuring them that arrangements are being made to enable aspirants to participate in the upcoming elections undmer a stable platform.

A formal announcement on his defection and political alignment is expected in the coming days.