Crisis looms in Bauchi APC over Gov Bala Mohammed’s defection plans

The Bauchi State caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is currently split over moves to admit the state governor, Bala Mohammed, into the party.

The disagreement came to the fore during a caucus meeting held in Abuja, where members voiced contrasting opinions on the political and structural consequences of the governor’s planned defection.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, acting Secretary of the caucus, Dabo Ismail, said a committee has been set up to outline and present the group’s demands and conditions to the party’s national leadership should the defection proceed.

In order to resolve the division, the caucus unanimously agreed to constitute a high-powered committee.

The committee will also engage critical stakeholders to ensure a smooth and inclusive negotiation process, represent the caucus in all discussions relating to potential defections from the PDP-led government, and provide periodic updates to members on the progress of engagements.

Ismail, however said the Governor is welcomed to join the party, but urged the National Leadership of the party to carry stakeholders at the state along in the negotiations.

Ismail described the initiative as a “democratic mechanism” designed to accommodate differing opinions while preserving party cohesion.

Speaking after the caucus meeting, the senator representing Bauchi North Senatorial District and Chairman of the Bauchi APC caucus, Sama’ila Dahuwa, expressed strong dissatisfaction with what they described as a lack of prior consultation by the party’s national leadership on a matter of such significance.

According to them, sidelining state stakeholders undermines the principles of internal democracy, inclusiveness, and respect for established party structures.

“The omission is unacceptable,” the caucus stated, warning against imposing decisions without broad-based engagement with key stakeholders at the state level.

He disclosed that the committee comprised top-ranking party figures, including a serving minister, former governors and two senators.

The caucus resolved to formally communicate its position and grievances to the APC national leadership, insisting on strict adherence to due process and internal consultation.

The Caucus warned that poorly managed integration of new entrants could alienate loyal party members and weaken cohesion within the party.

It will be recalled that Governor Mohammed, on March 31, 2026, disclosed plans to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), amid increasing political realignments ahead of future elections.

His position gained further attention after a recent visit by the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, alongside Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, to the Bauchi Government House for a closed-door meeting.