Bala Mohammed, governor of Bauchi state has finally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
The defection, announced by the governor at the government house on Saturday, follows weeks of speculation over his political future amid the crisis rocking the PDP.
Mohammed had earlier described the party as “headless” and signalled openness to alternative political platforms, a move analysts say could weaken the PDP by triggering an exodus of loyalists and reducing its grassroots support.
Earlier, reacting to the recent Supreme Court judgement on the PDP leadership dispute, the governor said the ruling prevented any faction from taking full control of the party.
He noted that neither his camp led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN) nor the faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, recorded outright victory.
“We have succeeded in ensuring that no single individual hijacks the party,” he said.
In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, Mohammed added, “As democrats who respect the rule of law, we accept the judgement. But it is not a victory for anyone.”
He stated that the party’s Board of Trustees would temporarily oversee its affairs in line with its constitution pending the formation of a caretaker committee.
The governor also accused Wike of working against the PDP, alleging that the FCT minister and his associates have ties with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Mohammed said his decision to leave the PDP was aimed at securing a stable platform for his supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Our hearts remain with the PDP, but politically we must move forward,” he said.
He also confirmed his intention to contest the Bauchi South Senatorial District seat in 2027, noting that consultations with alternative political parties preceded his decision to join the APM.