Gov Bala Moves To Join ADC

Amid intense political maneuvering and negotiations, Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, is considering a move to the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC).

This development came to light yesterday when the governor received an ADC delegation led by former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, at the Ramat House in Bauchi.

Speaking during the meeting, Governor Mohammed said his camp had explored multiple political options, including the APC, but concluded that they could not remain where they were not wanted.

“We left all our options open, including the APC, but we have realised that we cannot stay where we are not wanted. We must find a place within the opposition. That is why our political destiny appears to be tilting towards the ADC,” he said.

The governor described the ADC as a viable and attractive platform, noting that it has gained increasing acceptance among stakeholders engaged in discussions with him.

He, however, clarified that discussions were still ongoing and not yet finalised.

“As of now, our preferred destination is the ADC, but we have not concluded in a way that ensures deep stakeholder collaboration. We want to avoid making mistakes,” he added.

Governor Mohammed explained that his position is influenced by his responsibility to both Bauchi State and the broader national political landscape.

“Because I am managing two constituencies, Bauchi State and the federation, we must proceed carefully. We need to align with the interests of party stakeholders at both national and sub-national levels, which is why consultations have taken time,” he said.

He noted that while his camp is open to working with the ADC under certain conditions, negotiations are still ongoing alongside engagements with other political parties.

“We have indicated our willingness to join them under agreed terms. Though discussions are not fully concluded, the ADC remains our preferred destination for now,” he stated.

The governor expressed appreciation to the ADC leadership for extending an invitation, describing it as timely given the current political challenges.

“When you are faced with serious political challenges and someone extends a hand of partnership, it is only right to appreciate such a gesture. However, we remain focused on winning elections, which ultimately happens at the polling units,” he said.

He further stressed the need for strategic political survival and collaboration, noting that existing arrangements within the PDP were no longer yielding desired outcomes.

“Therefore, we must confront the reality of the situation and consider this opportunity presented by the ADC. We will not take it for granted,” he added.

Governor Mohammed also disclosed that two committees have been set up, one at the national level in Abuja and another in Bauchi, to assess the political direction of his camp and explore options across parties.

He assured journalists that a clearer position would emerge soon.

“You will hear a firm commitment from us by Thursday after our meeting in Abuja,” he said.

Earlier, the leader of the ADC delegation, Babachir David Lawal, said their visit was on the directive of the party’s National Chairman, Mr. David Mark to formally invite Governor Bala Mohammed to join the ADC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He described the governor as a bold and influential political figure, noting that his defection would significantly boost the party’s strength and electoral prospects.

Lawal also stressed the urgent need for unity among opposition parties, warning that failure to harmonise efforts could pose serious risks to Nigeria’s democratic future.

The meeting comes just days after Governor Bala Mohammed convened a PDP stakeholders’ meeting in Bauchi, aimed at addressing internal disagreements and strengthening party cohesion.

Political analysts believe the unfolding developments could reshape the political dynamics in Bauchi State and beyond, as momentum gradually builds toward the 2027 general elections.