Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed and his supporters are set to formally join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Thursday, following a prolonged leadership crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Mohammed hinted at the defection on Tuesday while hosting ADC leaders, including former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Babachir Lawal, at the Bauchi Government House. He explained that reconciliation efforts within the PDP had failed, leaving the party “headless” at both state and national levels.
“We set up committees at the national and state levels to explore all options, including even the All Progressives Congress (APC), but sadly, we discovered that we are not wanted there,” Mohammed said. He noted that ADC, under the leadership of national chairman David Mark, appears to be the most acceptable platform for him and his followers.
The governor stressed that consultations are ongoing, and a final decision will be communicated on Thursday to ensure inclusivity and proper stakeholder engagement. He emphasised that political strength ultimately lies with the electorate rather than party structures alone.
“We believe in winning elections, and elections are contested and won at the polling unit. We are not afraid of anyone,” Mohammed said, adding that joining ADC represents a strategic response to the “existential option” presented amid PDP’s internal challenges.
The move signals a significant realignment in Nigerian opposition politics ahead of upcoming elections and highlights growing divisions within the PDP.
