Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed is reportedly considering leaving the Peoples Democratic Party for the ruling All Progressives Congress, a development that could further weaken the opposition bloc in Nigeria.
According to political reports, the governor, who also serves as chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, is said to be engaged in advanced discussions with the leadership of the APC over a possible defection. Sources familiar with the negotiations indicated that the move could be announced within days if ongoing talks are successfully concluded.
The reported discussions are believed to have followed a recent closed door meeting between Mohammed and President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. Although the meeting was officially linked to governance and security concerns, particularly the situation in Bauchi State, insiders claim political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections were also part of the wider conversations.
One of the key issues reportedly under negotiation relates to the structure of the APC in Bauchi State. Unlike some governors who defected in the past and were allowed to take control of party structures in their states, Mohammed may not be granted full control of the party in Bauchi if he joins the ruling party.
Instead, sources claim the governor could be offered a senatorial ticket after completing his tenure as governor, while existing APC leaders in the state may retain influence over party structures and decisions regarding future candidates.
The reported move is coming at a time when the PDP is grappling with internal divisions and declining influence, with several prominent figures leaving the party or exploring alliances outside its traditional power base.
If the defection eventually happens, Mohammed’s departure would represent a major political shift given his role as chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and his involvement in efforts to stabilise the party during its ongoing leadership challenges.
However, neither Bala Mohammed nor the leadership of the APC and PDP has officially confirmed the alleged defection plans, and the talks are believed to still be ongoing.
