ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), in a major political shift that could alter alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The governor made the announcement on Saturday at the Government House in Bauchi during a well-attended event, where he was joined by the APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, senior government officials, and party stakeholders.
Mohammed described the move as both “firm and strategic,” noting that it followed extensive consultations with political associates and key stakeholders across the state.
“After extensive consultation, we have taken a firm and strategic decision to join the Allied Peoples Movement,” the governor declared.
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He explained that the defection was driven by the need to reposition politically as the 2027 elections approach, stressing the importance of providing a credible platform for his supporters.
“This is guided by one overriding objective: to secure victory in both states and continue to serve our people with utmost integrity, effectively mobilise our supporters and present a coherent and credible alternative to the people,” he said.
With the next general elections drawing closer, Mohammed said remaining in the PDP no longer guarantees the level of cohesion required to achieve his administration’s objectives.
According to him, the switch to the APM is aimed at ensuring his political base is not left stranded without a viable structure.
“We cannot allow our people to run out without a credible and effective political platform,” he stated, adding that leadership demands providing both “energy and direction” to supporters.
The governor’s exit is considered a significant setback for the PDP, where he previously served as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, a role that placed him among the party’s most influential figures nationwide.
Despite his departure, Mohammed expressed appreciation to the PDP for its role in his political journey, noting that the party provided the platform on which he was elected governor in 2019.
“It has been a platform through which we have found and contributed to the development of our state and our peer nation. We remain grateful for this history and the opportunities provided,” he said.
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In a symbolic ceremony, APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, formally received the governor into the party, presenting him with a membership card, as well as the party’s flag and logo featuring a tuber of cassava.
“I welcome you into the party, and I will start by giving you what qualifies you to be a member of the party: your membership card,” Dantalle said.
Saturday’s declaration followed an expanded stakeholders’ meeting held behind closed doors, where the decision to defect was believed to have been finalised.
The development is expected to trigger fresh political realignments as parties and key actors begin early positioning for the 2027 general elections.