Bala Mohammed denies leaving PDP

…As Makinde accuses Wike faction of pro-Tinubu agenda

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has reaffirmed his commitment to the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, insisting he would not defect despite recent developments within the party.

Bala expressed confidence that his faction would defeat the party faction led by Nyesom Wike, whom his faction accuses of working to re-elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

Mohammed, who is the chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, made this declaration on Sunday while receiving Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, alongside former Bayelsa State Governor, Henry Seriake Dickson, during a Sallah visit to Bauchi.

His comment may have put to rest speculations that he was planning to decamp to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

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“I have faced challenges, and unfortunately, I have always been in the opposition. But with all modesty and humility, God has always granted us victory, and we do not take it for granted,” he said.

“We are here to stay because God does not make mistakes in bringing people together. We will continue to serve Nigeria under any circumstances. If given the opportunity, we will rescue the PDP and provide Nigerians the platform to actualise their democratic aspirations.”

Reacting to comments attributed to former Abia State governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, who reportedly dismissed reconciliation within the Wike camp, Mohammed maintained that reconciliation remains possible, adding that the party would abide by the court’s decision on the ongoing crisis.

“Reconciliation is not something we initiated; it is being facilitated as a solution by a competent court of jurisdiction, the Federal Court of Appeal,” he stated.

“We are law-abiding and believe in the rule of law. There is no irreconcilable issue in Nigeria, especially in the political space.”

The governor appreciated Makinde’s visit, describing it as a strong show of solidarity.

“Anytime you see someone like Governor Seyi Makinde, who symbolises the opposition today, you are encouraged. When we started, we were about 13 or 14 governors, but today, it is essentially just the two of us in the PDP,” he noted.

He praised Makinde as “a patriot who believes in the Nigerian project”, highlighting his contributions to the party and national development.

“I cherish his drive, determination, and focus. Perhaps because he is an engineer and a young man, he stands out as an uncommon politician, one who breaks barriers and remains straightforward in his convictions,” Mohammed added.

He also acknowledged the presence of Bayelsa representatives, describing the state as his “second home”, and credited former President Goodluck Jonathan for his rise to national prominence.

Speaking earlier, Makinde said their visit was to pay Sallah homage and demonstrate support for Mohammed amid ongoing challenges.

“We are mindful of the challenges you are facing, both personally and as a state. We came to identify with you and the people of Bauchi State and to encourage you,” Makinde said.

“Challenges are part of leadership. As I always say, weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning. Our prayer is that the sacrifices made during the 30 days of Ramadan will not be in vain and that joy will come to you and the people of Bauchi State.”

On the PDP crisis, Makinde alleged that Wike had pledged support for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.

“I came into the public domain to state that I attended a meeting with Wike and President Tinubu, where he promised to deliver the PDP for the president in 2027. Anyone aligning with Wike’s group, in any guise, is indirectly supporting Tinubu,” he claimed.

“We leave Nigerians to judge. They are free to support anyone they choose. But if you want to support Tinubu, then you can openly join them. That is our position.”