BREAKING: Bala Mohammed defects to APM
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
The surprise move was announced by the governor on Saturday shortly after a stakeholders’ extended meeting attended by elected members of the House of Representatives, the Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly, 20 Local Government Council chairmen, and the State Working Committee of the Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the PDP, as well as other party stalwarts in the state.
Governor Mohammed explained that the decision to join the APM was strategic and aimed at creating a credible platform to better serve the people.
He added that due diligence was conducted before taking the decision and expressed confidence in the integrity and capacity of the party.
He emphasised that the defection was not borne out of uncertainty but a deliberate effort to reposition for effective governance. “It is not a retreat, but a strategic repositioning,” he said.
“As political leaders, we cannot allow our people to lose faith in our core values or in the effectiveness of the platform we represent. Our duty is to provide clarity, direction, and opportunity for our people and the next generation.”
The governor further said, “We are confronted with an unusual and complex political situation, but I am reassured by your steadfast commitment, humility, and loyalty.
“Over the past eight days, I have remained in Abuja, engaging at the highest level to address the challenges in our party and our political future with diligence and good faith.
“However, the outcome of the Supreme Court judgment has fundamentally altered our expectations. The court, in a split decision, nullified actions emanating from the parallel conventions conducted by the contending factions.”
Mohammed said the judgment left both sides without recognised leadership, with the PDP Board of Trustees temporarily assuming responsibility for the affairs of the party, as provided for in its constitution.
“After careful consideration and wide consultations with leaders and stakeholders across the country, it has become clear that our efforts to restore stability have not yielded the desired results.
“At this point, I wish to acknowledge and appreciate the PDP for the important role it has played in our collective political journey, through which we have grown and contributed meaningfully to the development of our state and nation.
“We remain grateful to the PDP for this history and the opportunities provided. As responsible leaders, we cannot allow our people to be left without a viable and effective political platform. Our duty is to provide clarity and direction while ensuring that the opportunities available to all of us are not diminished.
“Consequently, after extensive consultation, we have taken a firm and strategic decision to join the APM. Let me be clear. This decision is guided by one overriding objective—to secure victory in the state and continue to serve our people with strength and integrity,” he said.
The governor noted that the new political move would focus on mobilising supporters, strengthening party structures, and presenting a viable alternative in the next election.
Mohammed urged his supporters to remain calm, united, and focused, while engaging the public with the party’s vision and commitment to good governance.
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