In a move set to reshape the political landscape in Bauchi State, Governor Bala Mohammed has announced his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and immediate defection to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
The announcement was made on Saturday at the Government House in Bauchi, shortly after a closed-door meeting with political allies and stakeholders. The governor was joined at the briefing by APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, alongside senior officials from both the party and the state government.
Mohammed said the decision followed what he described as “extensive consultations” and careful reflection on the political direction required ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“This is a firm and strategic step,” he stated. “Our objective is to secure electoral success, strengthen our political base, and offer the people a coherent and credible alternative platform.”
The governor noted that with the next election cycle approaching, it had become necessary to align with a party structure that could effectively mobilise supporters and sustain governance momentum.
“We cannot afford to leave our people without a strong and viable platform as we approach 2027,” he said. “Leadership demands that we provide both direction and renewed energy.”
While explaining his decision, Mohammed paid tribute to the PDP, the party under which he was elected governor in 2019, acknowledging its contributions to his political career and the development of Bauchi State.
“The PDP has played an important role in our journey,” he said. “We remain appreciative of the opportunities it offered and the platform it provided for service.”
Political observers say the defection could trigger shifts within the PDP’s structure in Bauchi and beyond, particularly given Mohammed’s influence as a two-term governor and former chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum.
Sources indicated that members of the party loyal to a faction aligned with former minister Tanimu Turaki are also expected to follow the governor into the APM, signalling a broader realignment within the state.
The APM, which has been working to expand its national footprint, is likely to gain from the influx of Mohammed’s political network, potentially boosting its relevance ahead of the 2027 elections.