After weeks of tension, debates and internal wrangling within the crisis-hit Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bauchi State Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed has formally announced his defection to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
The governor made the declaration on Saturday following a high-level meeting with key stakeholders in the state, held in the aftermath of the Supreme Court ruling on the PDP leadership crisis.
Describing the situation within the PDP as ‘complex and uncertain,’ Mohammed said repeated efforts to stabilise the party had failed to yield results.
According to him, the apex court nullified the parallel conventions conducted by rival factions, effectively stripping both sides of legal recognition.
He noted that the ruling created a leadership vacuum, making it difficult for the party to function effectively or chart a clear path forward.
Mohammed explained that the decision to exit the PDP was reached after extensive consultations with political leaders and stakeholders across the country.
Despite his departure, the governor expressed appreciation to the PDP, acknowledging the role the party played in shaping his political career.
He described his move to the APM as a ‘strategic repositioning’ aimed at securing future electoral success and ensuring continuity in governance.
According to him, the APM offers a credible and legally stable platform for political engagement.
The governor disclosed that a transition plan is already underway, including the formation of a compliance committee and the commencement of membership registration.
He added that engagements with APM leadership at various levels have begun, alongside coordination with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Mohammed urged his supporters to remain calm, united and focused on sustaining the state’s developmental progress.
Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the APM, Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, welcomed the governor into the party, describing him as a committed democrat.
Dantalle said the party is built on the principles of integrity, sacrifice and service, with its slogan, ‘Nigeria First.’
He stressed that the APM operates without political godfatherism and is guided strictly by its constitution and the will of the people.
He also commended the governor’s inclusive leadership style and commitment to democratic values.
The announcement was greeted with chants of ‘APM, Nigeria First,’ as supporters expressed enthusiasm over the defection.