Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has assured that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will remain strong and return to Aso Villa in 2027, despite recent defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, the PDP Governors’ Forum chairman acknowledged his concern over colleagues leaving the party but emphasised that the PDP is quietly working behind the scenes to strengthen its ranks and rebuild public trust.
“If you ask me whether I’m concerned about governors leaving for APC, I am more than concerned. Leadership is a burden, but I cannot control the personal decisions of my colleagues. Still, a lot of work is being done to stabilise the party,” he said.
Governor Mohammed accused the APC-led federal government of using coercion to weaken opposition, warning that their approach aimed to transform Nigeria into a one-party state. “They have the power of coercion and everything else, but this will not stop the PDP,” he said.
He stressed that grassroots loyalty remains strong. “Even those who left are not finding it easy, because most people at the grassroots are PDP supporters and are unhappy with these defections. My commitment has not wavered. My state has no division, and I remain fully in PDP,” he added.
Acknowledging that more defections could occur, including among lawmakers in Bauchi, Mohammed insisted that the party’s structure in the state is solid. “Some are being influenced, even senators, but the state remains PDP. Nigerians want change, and they believe the PDP can deliver it,” he said.
Reflecting on the party’s history, the governor highlighted that most measurable achievements by the federal government have occurred under PDP administrations, reinforcing the party’s capacity to lead. “By the grace of God, if we stand firm, we will deliver. That will be evident in 2027,” he stated.
Addressing concerns about the upcoming party convention, he noted that leadership is handling internal disputes and litigation aimed at destabilising preparations. “Many of these issues are artificially created, but we are united. There is no faction within PDP. We are better organised than most opposition parties,” he said.
Regarding reports about potential defections by Governors Peter Mbah and Siminalayi Fubara, Mohammed clarified that neither had formally left the party. “Governor Mbah has not communicated any decision to us. Governor Fubara remains a loyal member despite the challenges he has faced. Both continue to contribute to the party,” he said.
On speculation about a 2027 presidential project involving former President Goodluck Jonathan, Mohammed said the PDP remains open to prominent figures returning or associating with the party. “People are still interested in our party, and these associations give us hope. As governors, we are united and focused on leadership that will serve Nigerians best,” he said.
Mohammed reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP and expressed confidence that visionary leaders would emerge from the party in 2027 to overcome the APC. “If someone leaves, they leave. It is beyond our control, but we remain steadfast in our mission,” he concluded.
