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

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has signalled his intention to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing unresolved internal crises within his current party.

 

Mohammed, who also chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, made this known on Tuesday while hosting an ADC delegation 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 said repeated efforts to reconcile warring factions within the PDP had failed.

 

“We have found ourselves in a very serious situation. I have done everything possible to ensure reconciliation, but it has not worked,” he said.

 

He added that consultations had extended beyond the PDP, including engagements with the All Progressives Congress (APC), but noted that those efforts did not yield results.

 

“We explored all options, including even the APC, but sadly, we discovered that we are not wanted there,” he stated.

 

The governor described the ADC as the most viable option so far, noting that discussions were still ongoing with key stakeholders.

 

“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.

 

Mohammed disclosed that a final decision would be reached imminently, with a formal announcement 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.

 

He also alleged that the PDP’s internal crisis had been worsened by external influences, accusing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of playing a role in deepening divisions within the party.

 

Earlier, Babachir Lawal said the ADC delegation was in Bauchi on the directive of the party’s national leadership, led by former Senate President David Mark, to formally invite the governor to join the party.

 

According to him, the move is part of broader efforts to build a united opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

“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 said.

 

He expressed optimism that the ongoing consultations would yield positive results, adding that the ADC remains open to accommodating the governor and his supporters.