Uncertainty trails Bala Mohammed’s alleged defection as APC denies deal

Uncertainty continues to surround reports of a possible defection by Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, to the All Progressives Congress (APC), as a senior party official has denied any formal agreement with the governor.

A top source within the ruling party disclosed that no deal has been reached with Mohammed, insisting that discussions about his possible move remain speculative. According to the source, the APC has not held consultations with the governor or his associates regarding any planned defection.

Checks at the Bauchi Government House also revealed confusion over the reports, with no official confirmation from either the governor or party authorities at the state level.

The Bauchi State APC Chairman, Muhammad Hassan Tilde, said the state chapter had not received any information on the matter, noting that such political moves are usually handled at the national level. He advised that enquiries be directed to party leaders at the national secretariat.

Governor Mohammed, while addressing journalists after swearing in newly appointed Permanent Secretaries, described the speculation as exaggerated and declined to confirm or deny the reports.

“I find it amusing that even when I have not said anything officially, people are already discussing me as if I have moved,” he said, adding that the situation reflects his growing political relevance.

The governor had earlier indicated he would address the issue in a media chat, but the engagement was later postponed indefinitely without explanation.

Sources close to the governor said his hesitation may be linked to concerns about the political future of his loyalists. While he is believed to be capable of securing his own political survival, the governor is reportedly focused on ensuring that his allies are not left disadvantaged in any realignment.

The speculation comes amid ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where Mohammed currently serves as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum. Political observers say the nullification of the party’s Ibadan convention has further complicated the situation, weakening internal cohesion.

There are also indications that regional political dynamics may be influencing the discourse, as several PDP governors in the North have reportedly moved to the APC, leaving Mohammed increasingly isolated within the bloc.

Despite the rumours, the governor has repeatedly affirmed his loyalty to the PDP, stating in recent weeks that he has no intention of leaving the party that brought him to power.

“I will not abandon the PDP. If I do, then I am not the Kaura that I am,” he had said during a meeting with party stakeholders, reaffirming his commitment to the party and to the people of Bauchi State.

Observers, however, note that one of the key challenges facing the governor—whether he defects or not—is the question of succession ahead of the end of his tenure. Reports suggest that internal and external political pressures may shape his eventual decision, particularly regarding the choice of a successor.

For now, the situation remains fluid, with both the APC and the governor yet to make any definitive pronouncement on the widely discussed political move.

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