Supporters and loyalists of Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, are grappling with uncertainty over his possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party, following prolonged consultations and shifting political signals.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that the situation has left many grassroots mobilisers and political actors unsure of the governor’s next move ahead of the 2027 elections.
The confusion began after the governor’s remarks on March 31, 2026, during a meeting with a delegation of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal.
At the meeting, Mohammed acknowledged internal crises within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the failure of reconciliation efforts.
He said, “We have found ourselves in a very serious situation. I have done everything possible to ensure reconciliation, but it has not worked,” adding that consultations had extended beyond the PDP.
Shortly after the ADC meeting, the governor reportedly held talks with key figures in the All Progressives Congress, including its National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, and Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf.
The meetings further intensified speculation over his possible defection.
However, the narrative shifted again on April 18, when an exit committee reportedly disclosed that plans to join the APC had been shelved due to disagreements over a proposed 60/40 power-sharing formula.
‘We Are Confused’ — Loyalist
A supporter and mobiliser, Idris Abdul’aziz, who spoke with Punch, described the unfolding situation as complex and difficult to interpret.
He said, “Politics is often described as a game of interest, but what we are witnessing now goes beyond that. As loyalists, we are confused.”
Abdul’aziz added that the lack of clarity has made it difficult for supporters to communicate a consistent message.
“We have seen moments where it appeared certain he would move to the ADC, and then to the APC. Now, we are told otherwise.
“It raises questions about consistency, especially when we are the ones communicating these moves to the public,” he said.
Despite the uncertainty, he maintained, “Nothing is permanent in politics. Our direction is tied to that of our principal. Wherever he goes, we will follow.”
Another supporter, Yusuf Makama, Coordinator of the Kaura Media Forum in Dass Local Government Area, urged calm and expressed confidence in the governor’s leadership.
He said, “The governor has already done about 70 per cent of the campaign work through his projects… the achievements are visible everywhere.”
Makama described the current lull as strategic rather than indecisive.
“What we are seeing is not inactivity but careful planning. The governor is not acting out of personal interest but considering what will accommodate his supporters at all levels,” he said.
He, however, noted that the APC could offer a stronger platform if the PDP crisis persists.
“If the PDP issues are not resolved, the APC presents a stronger platform… That said, we will stand with the governor regardless of his decision,” he added.
Makama also dismissed the ADC as lacking cohesion, saying, “The opposition has failed to unite and provide a credible alternative.”
PDP Urges Calm Amid Tension
Meanwhile, the Publicity Secretary of the Tanimu Turaki-led PDP faction in Bauchi State, Dayyabu Chiroma, called for calm among party members.
He said, “The political atmosphere is very tense, and calmness has to be employed to study the move at the state and national level.”
Chiroma assured members that delays in major decisions were in their best interest.
“We assure our members that the stagnation is in their best interest. We will make sure that our decisions favour all our members and well-wishers,” he added.
He further disclosed that stakeholders had been briefed on timelines for the forthcoming primaries, expressing optimism that unresolved issues would be addressed.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has fixed May 30 as the deadline for political parties to conduct primaries for the 2027 general elections.