2027: Gov Bala eyes Senate seat, set to announce new party

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has declared his intention to contest the Bauchi South senatorial seat in 2027, even as he confirmed that talks about his possible exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are nearing completion.

Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Mohammed said a final decision on his political future would be made public within days, amid the deepening crisis rocking the PDP.

“With only a few days left, we are working to conclude discussions on where to move,” he said.

The governor’s statement comes on the heels of the leadership turmoil in the PDP, worsened by the recent Supreme Court ruling which nullified the party’s Ibadan convention.

In recent weeks, Mohammed has held a series of high-profile meetings, fueling speculation about a potential defection to either the African Democratic Congress (ADC) or the All Progressives Congress (APC).

On March 31, he hosted ADC leaders, including former SGF Babachir Lawal, at the Bauchi Government House. He also met with APC national chairman Nentawe Yilwatda and Kano State governor Abba Yusuf, further stoking defection rumours.

However, negotiations reportedly broke down on April 18 over disagreements on power-sharing.

Despite the uncertainty, Mohammed ruled out any presidential ambition, insisting his focus is firmly on the senate.

“I have no interest in contesting for the presidency; we supported zoning it to the south for fairness,” he said.

“I have decided to contest for the senate because the people of Bauchi South have asked me to. As long as I am alive and healthy, I will answer that call.”

He also disclosed ongoing talks with key opposition figures, including Rabiu Kwankwaso and Peter Obi, over possible political collaboration ahead of 2027.
“We are in talks with Kwankwaso and Obi, but staying in the same political alignment is difficult because each state has its peculiarities,” he said.

On the Supreme Court judgment, Mohammed dismissed claims that it favoured the camp of FCT minister Nyesom Wike, insisting both factions of the PDP lost out.

“It is neither a total defeat for us nor a complete victory for the other side. While our convention was nullified, their leadership was also set aside,” he said.
He added that the party’s board of trustees would temporarily oversee its affairs pending the emergence of a new leadership structure.