Leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Bauchi State became divided on Wednesday in Abuja over plans to admit Governor Bala Mohammed into the party, as discussions on his possible defection created tension within the state chapter ahead of the 2027 elections.
The disagreement surfaced during a caucus meeting where party stakeholders expressed different views on whether the governor should be allowed to join and how the process should be handled. While some members supported the move, others raised concerns about the effect it could have on existing party structures and loyal members.
To address the situation, the caucus agreed to set up a committee made up of senior party figures to study the matter, define conditions for any possible admission, and engage with the national leadership of the party. The panel was also given the task of consulting key stakeholders in the state and reporting back with updates.
During the meeting, some leaders insisted that although the governor could be welcomed, the process must follow due consultation and should not ignore party members at the state level. They warned that decisions taken without involving local stakeholders could create unrest and weaken unity within the party.
Concerns about lack of consultation dominated the discussion, with members complaining that the process appeared to be moving without proper involvement of those at the grassroots. They argued that such an approach could lead to dissatisfaction among long-standing members who have built the party over time.
The development is linked to ongoing political changes ahead of the next general elections, as Bala Mohammed, who is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, has been exploring options to leave his party. His earlier statement about considering other political platforms, including the African Democratic Congress and the APC, has increased speculation about his next move.
Recent meetings involving key political figures have also added to the situation, as efforts to realign political interests continue across parties. Within Bauchi, his supporters have shown readiness to follow him to any platform he chooses, while others view the development as part of normal political movement.
For the APC in the state, the governor’s possible entry presents both an advantage and a challenge. It could improve the party’s strength in Bauchi, but it also raises fears about internal balance and the future of current members if the process is not properly managed.
The caucus plans to communicate its position to the party’s national leadership and continue discussions as the situation develops, while members watch closely to see the governor’s final decision.