By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has hinted at the possibility of defecting to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as he considers leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Mohammed, who is the chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, disclosed this on Tuesday, March 31, while hosting a delegation of the ADC led by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, at the Government House in Bauchi.
After a closed-door meeting, the governor told journalists that his planned defection was due to the lingering crisis within the PDP, noting that efforts at reconciliation had failed.
He said: “We have found ourselves in a very serious situation. I have done everything possible to ensure reconciliation, but it has not worked.
“We set up committees at both the national and state levels to explore all options, including even the All Progressives Congress, but sadly, we discovered that we are not wanted there.”
The governor said that while discussions were ongoing with several political platforms, the ADC appears to be the most acceptable and welcoming option.
“As of now, ADC appears to be a very welcoming and acceptable platform. However, we have not concluded discussions. We are engaging stakeholders to ensure we do not make mistakes,” he added.
The governor further revealed that a final decision on the defection would be taken soon, with a formal declaration expected by Thursday.
“We are very conscious of the timeline. Everything will be concluded by Thursday so that we can move forward together. You will hear a firm commitment from us,” he said.
Mohammed also alleged that internal crises within the PDP were being heightened by external influences and accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, of contributing to the crisis.
In his speech, the former SGF, Lawal, said the ADC delegation was in Bauchi at the instance of the party’s national leadership, under former Senate President David Mark, to invite the governor to join the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Lawal said the move was part of a wider strategy to unite opposition forces and provide an alternative leadership for the country.
The former SGF expressed optimism that the consultations would yield positive results, adding that the ADC was ready to accommodate the governor and his supporters.
