The Bauchi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has firmly opposed reported plans by Governor Bala Mohammed to defect to the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring him persona non grata.
The position was adopted by party stakeholders and caucus members after a meeting held in Abuja, where concerns were raised over the potential impact of the governor’s entry on the party’s unity and electoral strength in the state.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, Senator Samaila Dahuwa Kaila said the caucus unanimously rejected Mohammed’s proposed defection, citing his past criticisms of the party and President Bola Tinubu.
The stakeholders noted that the governor had yet to retract his previous remarks against the APC or initiate any reconciliation process, warning that admitting him under such circumstances could destabilise the party’s structure in Bauchi.
They further faulted what they described as the absence of consultation with critical stakeholders on the matter, insisting that such a move violates the principles of internal democracy.
According to the caucus, its resolution will be formally communicated to the party’s national leadership, alongside a demand for strict adherence to due process and respect for established party mechanisms.
The development comes amid reports that Mohammed had held meetings with President Tinubu and other APC leaders as part of moves to finalise his defection, with discussions said to include possible power-sharing arrangements.
However, sources within the party indicated that disagreements persist, particularly over the governor’s alleged demand to influence the choice of his successor.
Despite the stiff resistance from party stakeholders in Bauchi, indications suggest that Mohammed may proceed with plans to officially join the APC in the coming days, setting the stage for a potential political showdown within the party.