APC Chieftain Reveals Those Blocking Governor Bala Mohammed’s Defection
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi State, Aliyu Ilelah, has accused some party stakeholders of working against the possible defection of Governor Bala Mohammed to the ruling party.
He said those opposing the move are acting out of personal interest and not for the good of the party ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ilelah spoke on Wednesday in Bauchi. He addressed journalists alongside a large crowd of his supporters. His comments followed a recent caucus meeting led by Senator Samaila Dahuwa.
The group had openly rejected any plan to admit the Bauchi governor into the APC.
Reacting to that stance, Ilelah described the position of the caucus as surprising. He said it reflects bitterness and selfish ambition rather than loyalty to the party. He insisted that the APC must remain open to strategic alliances if it hopes to retain power in 2027.
“It is disrespectful to the leadership of the party and Mr President. While the President and the APC national leadership are reaching out to the governor, the so-called caucus is on the other hand trying to close the door against a sitting governor. The party does not belong to them alone,” Ilelah said.
He alleged that some members of the caucus lack moral standing to oppose the move. According to him, a number of them had previously switched parties after losing primaries.
Others, he claimed, joined the APC from the Peoples Democratic Party without proper consultation with party stakeholders.
Ilelah warned that such actions could weaken the party’s chances in the next general election. He stressed that any move capable of affecting the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should be avoided.
He maintained that most APC supporters in Bauchi are in support of Governor Mohammed’s defection. He said they believe the governor has the political strength to boost the party’s performance both within the state and across the country.
According to him, bringing in a sitting governor would naturally expand the party’s structure. He listed commissioners, local government chairmen, political appointees, and grassroots supporters as part of the advantages the APC stands to gain.
Ilelah further stated that rejecting such an opportunity shows a disconnect between some party leaders and the people on the ground. He warned that sidelining the governor could be politically risky and may affect the party’s national calculations.
He also praised President Tinubu’s style of politics. He described it as inclusive and strategic. He pointed to growing alliances in states like Cross River, Ebonyi, Kano, Adamawa, Taraba, and Plateau as signs of ongoing efforts to strengthen the party nationwide.
Describing the caucus opposition as a “dangerous contradiction,” Ilelah questioned their commitment to the party’s broader vision. He urged them to put aside personal interests and support moves that would strengthen the APC.
He, however, advised Governor Mohammed to remain calm and patient. He assured him that many party members in Bauchi are ready to welcome him if he decides to join the APC.
