We’ll receive Bala Mohammed — Bauchi APC

The Bauchi chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) says Bala Mohammed, governor of the state, has agreed to work with stakeholders when he joins the party.

On Tuesday, the APC stakeholders in the state advised the national leadership against sidelining them in negotiations ahead of Mohammed’s planned defection to the party.

The APC caucus subsequently constituted a committee to formally present its demand to the party’s national leadership.

On Wednesday, Mohammed hosted members of the APC in the house of representatives from Bauchi at his residence in Abuja.

Dabo Ismail, lawmaker representing Toro federal constituency and secretary of the committee, said the governor convened the gathering to engage APC stakeholders, adding that consultations would continue.

Speaking after the Bauchi APC stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja on Thursday, Ismail said party members have agreed to receive the governor.
“After the meeting [with Mohammed], we reconvened as a caucus to brief the larger house on our discussions with the governor regarding his planned defection. We emphasised the need to align with the renewed hope agenda of Mr president, which includes encouraging more people, especially a sitting governor, to join our party,” Ismail said.

“The party’s national leadership has urged unity and called on us to welcome the governor. Other issues can be addressed after successfully bringing him into the party.

“The national chairman, the speaker of the house of representatives, and the vice-president have all engaged the governor, encouraging him to join the APC.

“As lawmakers and stakeholders, we were consulted to ensure amicable discussions and agreements on how he will join the party. That is what led to today’s meeting. All critical stakeholders were present, and we will continue engagements on his planned defection.”

Ismail said the governor demonstrated willingness to collaborate with party members across all levels.

“It is a welcome development. We urge all party members in Bauchi state to embrace it. I assure our members that no one will be witch-hunted or shortchanged. We are building a more formidable party. The governor has expressed readiness to work with all members at every level,” he said.

“As leaders, we must engage to protect the interests of our members and people. We will continue consultations and keep members informed. Everyone should be assured that their interests will be protected.”

Also speaking, Isa Yuguda, former governor of Bauchi, said unity is essential and electoral victory remains the party’s primary objective.

“No matter what we achieve, if we don’t win elections, it amounts to nothing. Our goal is to win elections decisively and peacefully,” he said.

“We remain loyal to our leaders and committed to the party’s direction. We must work together, close ranks, and strengthen unity to ensure success in the upcoming general elections. We welcome this development and reaffirm our loyalty and support for the party.”

Jafaru Leko, lawmaker representing Dass/Bogoro/Tafawa Balewa federal constituency, said the consultations were aimed at ensuring fairness and inclusiveness.