Bauchi APC caucus sets up committee on Bala Mohammed’s defection

•As party stalwarts warn against imposition

THE All Progressives Congress (APC) Bauchi State caucus in the National Assembly on Wednesday resolved to set up a high-powered committee over the planned defection of Governor Bala Mohammed into the ruling party.

This is coming on the heels of sharp disagreement among members of the caucus during a meeting held in Abuja, where members expressed divergent views on the political and structural implications of the governor’s planned defection.

While giving update on the outcome of the meeting, acting Secretary of the caucus, Honourable Dabo Ismail, explained that the committee was mandated to articulate and present the caucus’ demands and conditions to the party’s national leadership in the event of any defection into the APC.

In addition, the committee is expected to engage critical stakeholders to ensure a smooth and inclusive negotiation process, represent the Caucus in all discussions relating to potential defections from the PDP-led government, and provide periodic updates to members on the progress of engagements.

Honourable Ismail, however said the Governor is welcomed to join the party, but urged the National Leadership of the party to carry stakeholders at the state along in the negotiations.

He described the initiative as a “democratic mechanism” designed to accommodate differing opinions while preserving party cohesion.

Speaking after the caucus meeting, the senator representing Bauchi North Senatorial District and Chairman of the Bauchi APC caucus, Senator Sama’ila Dahuwa, expressed strong dissatisfaction with what they described as a lack of prior consultation by the party’s national leadership on a matter of such significance.

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While maintaining that the omission is “unacceptable”, the caucus warned against imposing decisions without broad-based engagement with key stakeholders at the state level.

He disclosed that the committee comprised top-ranking party stalwarts, including a serving minister, former governors and two senators.

The caucus also resolved to formally communicate its position and grievances to the APC national leadership, insisting on strict adherence to due process and internal consultation.

The caucus therefore warned that poorly managed integration of new entrants could alienate loyal party members and weaken cohesion within the party.

It will be recalled that Governor Mohammed, on March 31, 2026, disclosed plans to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid increasing political realignments ahead of future elections.

His position gained further traction sequel to recent visit by the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, alongside Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State, to the Bauchi Government House for a closed-door meeting.