The Bauchi State caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is currently divided over moves to admit Governor Bala Mohammed into the party, as internal consultations over the proposed defection continue to generate tension within its ranks.
The division became evident during a caucus meeting held in Abuja, where members expressed differing positions on the political and structural implications of the governor’s potential entry into the APC.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Acting Secretary of the caucus, Rep. Dabo Ismail, said a committee had been set up to articulate and present the caucus’ position and conditions to the party’s national leadership should any defection into the APC materialise.
He explained that the caucus agreed to constitute a high-powered committee to address the disagreement and ensure a coordinated response. According to him, the committee will engage key stakeholders, represent the caucus in all discussions relating to possible defections from the PDP-led government in the state, and provide regular updates to members on ongoing engagements.
Ismail noted that while the governor is welcome to join the party, the national leadership must ensure that state stakeholders are fully carried along in the negotiation process. He described the approach as a democratic mechanism aimed at accommodating differing views while maintaining party unity.
However, Senator Sama’ila Dahuwa, who represents Bauchi North Senatorial District and chairs the APC caucus in the state, expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as the lack of prior consultation by the national leadership on such a sensitive political matter.
He and other caucus members argued that sidelining state stakeholders undermines internal democracy, inclusiveness, and respect for established party structures. They warned that decisions taken without broad consultation could weaken party cohesion.
The caucus also disclosed that the committee includes prominent party figures such as a serving minister, former governors, and two senators.
It resolved to formally communicate its concerns and position to the APC national leadership, insisting on adherence to due process and proper internal consultation before any decision is finalised.
The caucus further cautioned that poorly managed integration of new entrants could alienate loyal members and destabilise the party’s structure in the state.
Governor Bala Mohammed had earlier, on March 31, indicated interest in defecting to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid ongoing political realignments ahead of future elections. His political moves have attracted further attention following a recent closed-door visit by APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, alongside Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, to the Bauchi Government House.
APC Bauchi Caucus Divided Over Possible Defection of Governor Bala Mohammed
