2027: Bauchi Gov Bala Mohammed defects from PDP, joins APM

In one of the most important political moves, Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to Allied Peoples Movement (APM), following months of tough negotiations that began following the landmark Supreme Court decision on leadership wrangle in the party.

The governor announced the defection on Saturday, after holding a critical meeting with the political bigwigs of the state. The governor said that the discussions mainly revolved around the significance of the Supreme Court decision on the party.

He explained that it has not been an easy week for him, considering that in the previous week, he has spent more than eight days in Abuja meeting political bigwigs in an attempt to end the internal wranglings of the PDP.

However, despite all his attempts at stabilizing the party, the governor observed that recent judicial decisions as well as some happenings in the PDP had altered the political dynamics to such an extent that there was no other way for him but to move away from the previous trajectory.

As Mohammed put it, “the recent judgment of the Supreme Court invalidating the parallel convention held by opposing factions of the PDP and ordering the trial court to make findings of facts on the issue leaves us with much less leverage.”

He went on to say that, “after much reflection and consultations with various political leaders and stakeholders in the country, it has become apparent that we have been unable to achieve our objectives.”

The governor added that the decision taken was purely political, with no sentimental considerations whatsoever.

He described the APM as a “credible and legally stable alternative” and said the move was aimed at ensuring continuity of governance and political relevance ahead of the 2027 elections.

The governor also confirmed that members of his State Executive Council interested in elective positions had resigned in compliance with electoral requirements.

While expressing appreciation to the PDP for its role in his political career, he said the decision to exit the party was taken in the interest of his supporters and the broader political environment.

“We remain PDP at heart. We are leaving not out of bitterness, but out of necessity—to continue the struggle for good governance,” he added.

Mohammed further announced the establishment of transition committees to manage defection processes, including membership registration into APM, liaison with party leadership, and coordination with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He urged supporters to remain calm and united, insisting the move was a strategic repositioning rather than a crisis-driven exit.

Receiving the governor into the APM, the party’s National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, described the development as a major boost for the party, praising Mohammed’s leadership and democratic credentials.

Dantalle said the APM operates on principles of integrity and national development, adding that the party has no internal crisis and remains open to new entrants.

He formally presented the governor with his membership card and party insignia, marking his official entry into the APM.

The defection is expected to further reshape political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, as opposition figures continue to reposition across emerging platforms.