Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF), Bala Mohammed, has voiced concern over the recent wave of defections from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), warning that those who left are already facing political challenges.
Speaking on Saturday in Abuja after inaugurating the PDP Convention Communication Subcommittee, Mohammed said PDP governors are working discreetly to maintain unity within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He noted that the involvement of respected figures such as former President Goodluck Jonathan and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi with the PDP signals Nigerians’ continued trust in the party’s vision.
In recent months, several high-profile politicians have joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led opposition coalition, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Senate President David Mark, and former presidential aspirant Dele Momodu. Conversely, some PDP leaders have crossed over to the APC, among them Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and 2023 vice-presidential candidate Ifeanyi Okowa.
Reports also suggest that Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri might defect to the APC ahead of the PDP’s National Elective Convention slated for November 15–16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.
“I’m Deeply Concerned” — Bala Mohammed
Reacting to the development, Mohammed admitted being “more than concerned” about the defections but maintained that efforts are ongoing to strengthen the party from within.
“Leadership is a burden. As a leader among equals, I cannot dictate my colleagues’ choices. However, a lot is being done behind the scenes.
The APC-led federal government is trying to turn Nigeria into a one-party state. They wield the power of coercion and control.
Even so, those who defected are realizing it’s not easy — because the grassroots remain firmly PDP and are unhappy with these moves,” he said.
He added that while some defections are driven by political “permutations and calculations,” he remains committed to the PDP.
“I am not going anywhere. My state is PDP, united, and without division. Even though one of my senators plans to leave, Bauchi remains PDP. Nigerians still want change, and they believe it will come through the PDP,” he said, emphasizing that most of the federal government’s notable achievements originated from past PDP administrations.
“Exit Peacefully, Without Damaging the Party”
Mohammed advised those intending to leave the PDP to do so respectfully without tarnishing the party’s reputation, stating that their exit would create space for new, capable members.
He expressed confidence that the upcoming convention would produce credible leaders capable of challenging the APC and addressing the pressing needs of Nigerians.
On internal disputes, the governor dismissed fears of division, describing most litigations against the party as “artificially created to weaken us.”
“We don’t have any faction in the PDP. At the state level, some people are trying to stop the convention through the courts, which is unhealthy. But we are addressing it squarely. Compared to other opposition parties, we are more organized — with a functional leadership structure,” he stated.
“Big Names Still Believe in PDP”
When asked about efforts to bring back prominent figures like Jonathan and Obi, Mohammed said their continued association with the PDP shows the party’s enduring relevance.
“People are still interested in this party, and we are encouraged by that. As governors, we have resolved to put personal interests aside. I once aspired to be president in 2023 but stepped down to serve as governor. I have done my best, and I’m content.
We are united and determined to produce leadership that will give Nigerians the right choice for Aso Rock in 2027,” he concluded.
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