Bala Mohammed declares ‘freelance politician’ status after closed-door talks with  Obi

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has described himself as a “freelance politician” following a private meeting with former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in what appears to reflect shifting political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The governor made the remark after a closed-door engagement with Obi at the Government House, Bauchi, where both leaders reportedly discussed national issues and possible areas of cooperation.

Speaking after the meeting, Mohammed said his current political position was no longer firmly tied to any single party structure.

“Neither PDP nor ADC is standing alone. I am a freelance politician now, and my party is also in limbo. We are looking up to the judiciary,” he said.

He explained that the discussions were not driven by partisan interests but by broader concerns about national unity and political collaboration.

“Certainly, we are all in the opposition, and that is why I say this is a political discussion. We will not disclose everything we have discussed,” he added.

Mohammed also suggested that ongoing interactions among political actors could eventually lead to stronger alliances and improved electoral prospects.

“We cannot operate without a platform. At the end of the day, the current political situation may even help unify us and strengthen our chances of winning elections,” he said.

Describing Obi’s visit as symbolic, the governor said it demonstrated efforts to build bridges across regions and political divides.

“He is talking about unifying the country, building bridges, and creating a new tomorrow for Nigeria. We feel honoured by this visit,” Mohammed noted.

For his part, Obi said the visit was part of wider consultations aimed at promoting national unity and collaboration among stakeholders.

“My purpose is to solicit support and cooperation in our quest to unite this country,” he said.

He dismissed suggestions that the meeting was about party alignment or defections, insisting that it was focused on nation-building.

“We are not inviting each other into political parties; we are inviting ourselves to build a better Nigeria,” Obi added.

The meeting was attended by several South-East political figures, including former Imo State Governor, Achike Udenwa, as well as Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Victor Umeh.

The development comes amid intensified political consultations by Mohammed across party lines, including engagements with stakeholders from the African Democratic Congress and the All Progressives Congress, as alignments begin to take shape ahead of 2027.