The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has voiced concern about the growing number of PDP members and governors moving to the All Progressives Congress, saying many of them are struggling politically after switching sides.
Speaking in Abuja on Saturday during the inauguration of the PDP Convention Communication Sub-committee, Mohammed said that governors under the PDP are working quietly to strengthen unity within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He explained that the involvement of prominent figures such as former President Goodluck Jonathan and the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, in PDP activities reflects Nigerians’ continued trust and interest in the party.
In recent months, several key politicians, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-presidential aspirant Dele Momodu, have joined an opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 polls.
At the same time, some PDP governors and leaders have defected to the ruling APC. Those who have moved include Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and the PDP’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Ifeanyi Okowa. Reports also indicate that Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri may cross over before the party’s national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, scheduled for November 15 and 16.
Governor Mohammed expressed concern over the situation, noting that although he respects his colleagues’ freedom of choice, many defectors are facing difficulties after leaving. He said, “If you ask me whether I am worried about our governors leaving for APC, I am more than concerned. But leadership comes with responsibility. I cannot control my colleagues’ decisions, though much work is being done behind the scenes.”
According to him, the APC-led federal government has been using its influence to weaken the opposition and push Nigeria toward a one-party system. He added that the PDP still maintains strong support at the grassroots, where many Nigerians remain unhappy about the defections.
Okay News reports that Mohammed also reaffirmed his loyalty to the PDP, saying he has no plans to leave the party. “I am not going anywhere. My state is fully PDP, and we have no division. Nigerians still believe the PDP can bring real change,” he said.
The Bauchi Governor urged those planning to leave the PDP to do so without damaging the party’s reputation, stressing that their exit would create opportunities for other capable Nigerians to join. He expressed confidence that the upcoming national convention will produce credible leaders who can present a strong challenge to the APC in 2027.
On internal disputes, Mohammed said the party leadership is tackling issues related to court cases and internal distractions, many of which he claimed were designed to destabilize the PDP. “We have no faction in our party,” he said. “Some states are facing court actions meant to stop the convention, but we are addressing them. Compared to other opposition parties, we are more stable and organized.”
When asked about efforts to bring back former President Goodluck Jonathan and Peter Obi, Mohammed said their association with the PDP shows that many Nigerians still identify with the party. “These big names being linked to us make us happy. We have put aside personal interests and are focused on producing leaders who can restore hope in the country,” he stated.
