The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party and formally joined the Allied Peoples Movement.
Mohammed announced the defection on Saturday after a meeting with key political stakeholders convened to review the implications of the Supreme Court’s ruling on the PDP’s leadership crisis and chart a path forward.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, the governor disclosed that he had spent over a week in Abuja consulting with party leaders in a bid to resolve lingering disputes within the PDP. He noted, however, that the apex court’s decision nullifying parallel conventions conducted by rival factions had reshaped the party’s structure.
According to him, the judgment effectively invalidated the claims of both factions, leaving the Board of Trustees to temporarily oversee party affairs, a development he said has deepened uncertainty within the party.
He said, “After extensive consultations with stakeholders across the country, it has become evident that efforts to restore cohesion within the party have not achieved the desired outcome.”
Mohammed expressed gratitude to the PDP for providing him a platform to serve but emphasised that his decision to leave was driven by the need to ensure political stability and effective governance in Bauchi State.
“As leaders, we cannot afford to leave our people without a viable political platform,” he added.
The governor described his move to the APM as strategic, noting that the party offers a stable structure devoid of legal disputes that could hinder political activities ahead of future elections.
He also revealed that members of the State Executive Council aspiring to elective positions had resigned in compliance with relevant laws.
“Though we remain emotionally attached to the PDP, this decision is borne out of necessity, not resentment, as we continue to pursue good governance,” Mohammed stated.
Announcing his new affiliation, he said the decision to adopt the APM followed broad consultations and careful consideration.
To facilitate a seamless transition, the governor outlined steps including the setting up of a compliance committee, commencement of membership registration, engagement with APM leadership, and the formation of a team to liaise with the Independent National Electoral Commission.
He urged his supporters to remain calm and united, stressing that the move represents a deliberate political repositioning rather than a reaction to uncertainty.
Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the APM, Yusuf Dantalle, formally welcomed the governor and his supporters into the party.
Dantalle described the APM as a disciplined and democratic platform anchored on integrity, service, and national interest. He commended Mohammed’s leadership, noting that Bauchi has continued to uphold democratic values and inclusive governance.
He further highlighted the party’s growing influence, citing its performance in recent local government elections where it secured councillorship seats and maintained competitiveness.
Assuring the new entrants of stability within the party, Dantalle said the APM operates strictly in line with its constitution and is free from internal crises.
He subsequently presented Mohammed with his membership card and party insignia, marking his official admission into the party.