Bauchi gov hints at defection to ADC, set for declaration Thursday

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has indicated that the African Democratic Congress is his preferred destination as he considers defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party.

Mohammed, who also chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, disclosed this on Tuesday 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.

Speaking with journalists after a closed-door meeting, the governor attributed his planned defection 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.”

Mohammed explained that while discussions were ongoing with several political platforms, the ADC had emerged as the most acceptable option so far.

“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 divisions within the PDP were being exacerbated by external influences, accusing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of contributing to the crisis.

He added that he had met with key stakeholders, including leaders of the All Progressives Congress and President Bola Tinubu, in efforts to resolve the impasse, but the situation remained unresolved.

Earlier, 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.

He said the move was part of a broader strategy to unite opposition forces and provide an alternative leadership for the country.

According to him, “The task of rescuing Nigeria in 2027 requires the unity of all well-meaning Nigerians. We are here to engage Governor Bala Mohammed because of his leadership qualities and political experience.”

Lawal expressed optimism that the consultations would yield positive results, adding that the ADC was ready to accommodate the governor and his supporters.

He noted that the party’s growing momentum across states would strengthen its chances in the next general elections. (Punch)