Bala Mohammed throws supporters in suspense over defection rumours

By Rauf Oyewole 

The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has remained silent over 48hours when the news of his possible defection surfaced on national dailies, the situation has put thousands of his loyalists and supporters in a tête-à-tête in different quarters.

Mohammed, the Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum is reportedly making a move to dump his party for the All Progressives Congress (APC). The Governor is yet to deny or confirm the reports but when our Correspondent visited the seat of power at the state on Tuesday, the flag of the PDP was seen flying.

Meanwhile, one of the key party men who spoke in confidence said that there are strong indications within the party on the defection of Mohammed. The source said that there is more pressure now than before. 

“He told us that he won't go to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and he was not ready to reconcile with FTC Minister, Nyesom Wike in the fragmented PDP. Definitely, His Excellency is going to the APC. He has not told us when he will announce his defection but I know it will be after Salah,” the source said.

Mohammed had on several occasions publicly said that he would not be coerced to join the APC, saying the party has destroyed the country’s economy. During his last visit to the President, Mohammed told the press that he did not discuss his defection with him.

Mohammed’s Special Adviser on Media Mukhtar Gidado did not comment on the inquiry when contacted at the time of filing this report.

Also, a cabinet member also confirmed that "there is an ongoing discussion at the top. We are waiting for their conclusion. But as far as we are concerned, wherever the Governor moves to, we are going with him. He is our political party.”

Supporters within the town expressed dissatisfaction with the Governor's silence about the rumoured defection plan while others believe that the Governor needs to plan and consult widely. 

A member of PDP, Abubakar Kirfi said that: “His Excellency is not the first PDP governor to defect to APC. We just want him to address us. We need a direction. We have seen what has happened to our party at the centre and he has not addressed us.

“Are we making reconciliation move or we are seeking another viable platforms. This is the time to get a direction, particularly from our leader –Bala Mohammed,” he said.