Wike sponsorship of Bala comments baseless, misleading –Bauchi speaker

By Musa Baba Adamu

The Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abubakar Y. Suleiman, has strongly criticized a recent statement by former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, describing it as misleading, baseless, and politically motivated.

In a statement yesterday, Suleiman dismissed Dogara’s remarks against Governor Bala Mohammed as an unfounded attack aimed at discrediting a leader dedicated to Bauchi State’s progress.

He described Governor Mohammed as a visionary leader whose governance is guided by public interest rather than political maneuvering or personal ambition. According to him, the governor’s widespread grassroots support and commitment to good governance were the reasons behind his electoral success, not secret agreements or undue influence.

Responding to Dogara’s claim that Governor Mohammed lacked the financial capacity to fund his 2018 governorship campaign, Suleiman clarified that the governor’s success was a result of collective efforts from the people.

“Governor Bala Mohammed has always relied on the trust and goodwill of the people, not personal wealth. His leadership is built on inclusivity and transparency,” he said.

The Speaker also rejected Dogara’s assertion that Governor Mohammed neglected to support other party candidates. He insisted that the governor had consistently worked towards party unity and collective progress. “To suggest otherwise is misleading,” he added, emphasizing that Governor Mohammed remains a key pillar of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) both within Bauchi State and at the national level.

Regarding the alleged fallout between Governor Mohammed and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, Suleiman dismissed the claim as mere speculation. He argued that differences in leadership were normal but that Governor Mohammed had always prioritized collaboration over division. “His dedication to unity within the PDP and across Nigeria remains steadfast,” he asserted.

Highlighting the governor’s achievements, the Speaker pointed to significant advancements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education. “Under his leadership, Bauchi State has witnessed unprecedented development, and no amount of political rhetoric can erase these facts,” he said.

Suleiman urged politicians to focus on constructive engagement rather than resorting to personal attacks, warning that Dogara’s approach only distracted from real governance issues. “Politics should be about ideas and progress, not character assassination,” he noted.

In conclusion, he reaffirmed Governor Mohammed’s enduring legacy, stating, “No desperate attempt to distort history can overshadow his accomplishments. His record speaks louder than the words of his critics.”