The Bauchi State Government has dismissed claims that Governor Bala Mohammed is planning to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), describing the allegation as false and misleading.
The rebuttal follows a statement credited to the PRP Publicity Secretary in Bauchi State, who was quoted as saying that the governor was not welcome to join the party.
In a reaction issued on Wednesday, the governor’s spokesperson, Mukhtar Gidado, said the claim was “a figment of the author’s imagination,” insisting that Mr Mohammed has never considered leaving the PDP.
“We state unequivocally that at no time has Governor Bala Mohammed contemplated leaving the PDP, let alone initiating any move to defect to another party or making overtures to the PRP,” Mr Gidado said.
He noted that the governor remains actively involved in efforts to stabilise the PDP nationally, accusing unnamed political actors of attempting to plunge the opposition party into crisis.
Mr Gidado argued that Mr Mohammed’s political track record and electoral victories over the PRP in previous contests underscore his influence and popularity in the state.
According to him, Bauchi has recorded significant gains under Mr Mohammed’s administration, including initiatives in empowerment, infrastructure, rural development, urban renewal and tourism.
The statement also criticised the PRP for failing to understand what it described as the benefits of ongoing reforms in traditional institutions and devolution of powers in the state.
“The PRP has revealed its true colours. The good people of Bauchi State are reminded to remain vigilant and ensure that recent developmental gains are not entrusted to habitual critics,” the spokesperson said.
While reaffirming the governor’s loyalty to the PDP, the statement added that Mr Mohammed reserves the constitutional right to determine his political future if necessary.
