Gov Bala Mohammed visits Tinubu, speaks on defection speculation

Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi State, has denied speculation that his visit to the Presidential Villa in Abuja was linked to a planned defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that he remains a committed member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The governor spoke with journalists after a closed-door meeting with Bola Tinubu on Friday, a visit that came hours after Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri announced his defection to the APC.

Mohammed dismissed suggestions that he was in Abuja to perfect a move to the ruling party, stressing that his visit was strictly for governance and partnership with the Federal Government.

“No, you see, it is not always right for people to be insinuating and trying to get answers where there are no questions.

“I have always said that I am a PDP man. I know the Federal Government and the importance of partnership. This is time for governance.

“Of course, any governor can leave because if it is Fintiri’s decision to leave, it may not be my decision. I’m not coming here for defection; I’m coming here for governance, for partnership,” he said.

According to him, the visit was aimed at securing Federal Government intervention over worsening insecurity in parts of Bauchi State, particularly in local government areas affected by bandit activities.

He said armed groups had taken over several ungoverned areas, leading to clashes with security forces and forcing residents to flee their communities, warning that the situation could escalate into a humanitarian crisis if not urgently addressed.

“I came here on behalf of the people and government of Bauchi State to see Mr President concerning insecurity in some local governments.

“The situation is escalating to a level where it may become a humanitarian crisis. Out of fear, many inhabitants are fleeing to other states and local governments at this time of fasting,” he said.

Mohammed said the president responded positively and had already issued directives to security agencies, adding that further meetings with senior security officials were planned.

He also disclosed that Bauchi State would collaborate with neighbouring states including Taraba, Plateau and Gombe to organise a joint security summit aimed at addressing banditry in forested areas.

The governor expressed concern that rising insecurity could threaten ongoing investment interests in Bauchi, including oil, gas and mining projects.

On the issue of state policing, Mohammed said he supports the creation of state police despite the financial implications, noting that improved security would boost economic activities and development.