Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who also chairs the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, has denied speculation that he is positioning himself as a vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.
Speaking on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme aired Wednesday night, Mohammed stressed that the decision on a running mate rests solely with the presidential candidate of the party.
“I am not withdrawing because I want to prepare myself for vice presidency. Of course, if it is within the consensus of our party leaders and the presidential candidate to choose me, I am ready. But certainly, if I am not given it, I will give my maximum support to whoever emerges,” he stated.
Responding to rumours that the PDP is considering a joint ticket pairing him with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Mohammed dismissed the reports as baseless. “I and Seyi have never discussed the issue of pairing. What we have mentioned is the issue of taking over power by the grace of God so that we can give Nigerians the opportunity of good governance in 2027 and beyond,” he said.
Zoning and 2023 Lessons
The Bauchi governor explained that the PDP’s decision to zone its presidential ticket to the South was informed by lessons from the 2023 polls, which he described as a “not pleasant experience” for the party.
“I discovered, to my surprise, that the presidency is a consensus phenomenon. In spite of my leadership position, I am leading a group of equals,” he said, adding that the PDP must present a balanced ticket that reflects Nigeria’s religious and regional diversity.
He warned against repeating what he termed the “cul-de-sac” of the APC’s Muslim-Muslim ticket in 2023, advocating instead for a Christian southerner as presidential candidate paired with a Muslim northerner.
Engaging Stakeholders
Mohammed also disclosed that the PDP has initiated dialogue with several high-profile politicians, including former President Goodluck Jonathan, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.
“I was the first person to say that if Jonathan runs, I will not run. I have also spoken to Peter Obi, who is my brother and friend, and even Governor Amaechi. The PDP is open to all celebrated politicians who can add value to our presidential drive,” he noted.
On concerns that zoning might alienate northern members of the PDP, Mohammed maintained that the decision was taken in good faith. “Some of my supporters were not happy with the way I gave up, but they have to learn that this is the way of life. We have to respect each other. Yes, there were calls and complaints, but they are manageable,” he explained.
Party Cohesion and Tinubu Allegations
Addressing reports of cracks within the PDP, Mohammed admitted there were disagreements but said they were being managed discreetly. “We are not washing dirty linen in public. As for Wike, he was a good friend of mine, and while our closeness has reduced, there is no open hostility,” he clarified.
On claims that some PDP leaders are collaborating with President Bola Tinubu and the ruling APC, he was emphatic: “We are not working for Tinubu. We are determined, united, and prepared to offer Nigerians a credible alternative.”
Mohammed concluded by stressing that democracy thrives only when opposition parties remain strong, inclusive, and focused on consensus-building.
