- In a bid to address the situation, the caucus agreed to establish a high-level committee tasked with outlining its position
- He added that the panel would consult widely with relevant actors, represent the caucus during negotiations
- Sama’ila Dahuwa, criticized what members described as inadequate consultation
Bauchi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is currently grappling with internal divisions over the possible admission of Governor Bala Mohammed, highlighting growing tensions within the party as political alignments begin to shift.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the disagreement became evident during a caucus meeting held in Abuja on Wednesday, where party leaders expressed differing opinions about the political and structural implications of the governor’s potential defection.
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In a bid to address the situation, the caucus agreed to establish a high-level committee tasked with outlining its position and engaging the party’s national leadership.
Acting caucus secretary, Dabo Ismail, explained that the committee would determine the conditions for admitting the governor while ensuring that key stakeholders within the state are not excluded from the process.
He added that the panel would consult widely with relevant actors, represent the caucus during negotiations, and provide regular updates on its progress.
While emphasizing that the governor is not being rejected, Ismail stressed that any decision must reflect the principles of internal democracy.
Although Bala Mohammed is considered welcome in the APC, Ismail urged the party’s national leadership to involve state stakeholders fully in any discussions surrounding his entry.
Despite this, concerns about how the issue has been handled dominated deliberations.
The chairman of the state APC caucus and senator representing Bauchi North, Sama’ila Dahuwa, criticized what members described as inadequate consultation.
He and other caucus members warned against imposing decisions without proper engagement, describing such an approach as unacceptable. They argued that sidelining local party structures undermines inclusiveness and internal democracy, and could destabilize the party.
Dahuwa further revealed that the newly formed committee includes prominent figures such as a serving minister, former governors, and two senators—an indication of the seriousness attached to the matter.
The caucus also resolved to formally convey its concerns to the APC’s national leadership, insisting that due process must be followed in integrating new members.
It cautioned that mishandling the situation could alienate loyal party members and weaken unity within the state chapter.
The governor’s reported move comes amid shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections and increasing speculation about his next political destination.
A former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and a key member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bala Mohammed has remained an influential figure in the North-East. However, internal challenges within the PDP and evolving national coalitions have fuelled speculation about his possible departure.
On March 31, 2026, the governor publicly indicated plans to leave the PDP for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move widely seen as part of broader opposition realignments. His statement triggered renewed political maneuvering, including overtures from rival parties.
He noted that despite efforts at reconciliation, progress had been limited, adding that exploratory discussions had included the APC, where he claimed he felt unwelcome.
Speculation intensified following a private meeting at the Bauchi Government House involving the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, and Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf. The meeting fueled suggestions that the APC might still be considering a pathway for his entry despite his earlier interest in the ADC.
On April 4, the governor met with his supporters and PDP stakeholders, leading to the formation of an exit committee by the state PDP chairman, Sama’ila Burga.
Speaking on the matter, PDP Publicity Secretary, Dayyabu Chiroma, said the committee had just a few days left to conclude its assignment, noting that party members remained firmly behind the governor.
He emphasized that their support goes beyond loyalty, describing it as a commitment to a leader who has significantly contributed to the state’s development.
Also commenting, Yusuf Makama, the Dass Local Government Coordinator of the Kaura Media Forum, described the situation as a typical feature of political life. He expressed confidence that whichever party the governor eventually joins would benefit from his leadership, pointing to his achievements in Bauchi State.
For the APC in Bauchi, the potential defection of a sitting PDP governor presents both an opportunity for political gain and a challenge to internal cohesion.
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