The Bauchi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is experiencing internal divisions over the potential admission of Governor Bala Mohammed, currently of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), into the party.
The disagreements emerged during a caucus meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, where members expressed frustration over what they described as insufficient consultation with state-level stakeholders.
Caucus chairman and Bauchi North senator, Sama’ila Dahuwa, criticised the lack of engagement, calling it “unacceptable” and warning that bypassing local structures could undermine internal democracy and destabilise the party.
To address the tensions, the caucus agreed to form a high-powered committee tasked with articulating its position and engaging the APC national leadership.
Acting Secretary of the caucus, Dabo Ismail, explained that the panel would set the conditions for the governor’s admission and ensure that state stakeholders are fully involved in the process.
“While the governor is not being shut out, the process must reflect internal democracy,” he said. The committee is also expected to consult key actors, represent the caucus in negotiations, and provide regular updates on progress.
Ismail further emphasised that Mohammed is welcome in the APC, but urged national leaders to include state stakeholders in any discussions, describing the committee as a “democratic mechanism” for managing differing interests whilet preserving party unity.
The debate over Mohammed’s possible defection comes amid shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 general election and speculation over his future political platform.
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A former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and influential PDP figure in the North-East, Mohammed has signalled a possible exit from the party due to internal dynamics and evolving national coalitions.
On March 31, 2026, he publicly indicated intentions to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move widely interpreted as part of broader opposition realignments.
His announcement sparked political calculations, including overtures from rival parties.
Speculation intensified following a closed-door meeting at the Bauchi Government House involving APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda and Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, fuelling talk that the party may be exploring a route to bring Mohammed into its fold despite his prior ADC leanings.
For the Bauchi APC, integrating a sitting PDP governor presents both opportunity and challenge.
While it could strengthen the party’s electoral prospects in the state, it also raises concerns about disrupting existing power structures and the future of loyal party members who have built the platform over time.
Such tensions are common in Nigeria’s political landscape, where high-profile defections often meet internal resistance, especially when they threaten established hierarchies.
As consultations continue and positions harden, the Bauchi APC faces the delicate task of expanding its base without fracturing its core.