Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, Reveals the Untold Story of Atiku’s Brush with Nabubakar Wike
A few years ago, the then Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, had a falling out with his longtime ally, Nyesom Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State, who was recommended by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors and National Working Committee (NWC) to be his running mate. According to Bala Mohammed, the Governor of Bauchi State, Atiku’s decision not to choose Wike was a painful and hurtful experience for Wike.
Mohammed, who was a strong contender for the PDP presidential ticket at the time, explained that Wike felt disrespected and humiliated when other candidates stepped down for Atiku during the PDP primaries. He further revealed that if Wike had simply informed him of his ambition, he (Mohammed) would not have contested the election, citing their strong friendship and mutual respect.
However, when Mohammed was asked to step down for Atiku by then PDP Chairman, Iyorchia Ayu, he refused, believing that he had the right to pursue his presidential ambition. He even went as far as to ask Atiku to drop out of the race, jokingly stating, “Leave it for me, as your younger brother, I’ll do it for you.”
According to Mohammed, his decision to remain in the race was not rooted in regional or personal animosity, but rather a desire to represent the interests of the entire country, not just a particular region. He believed that Atiku’s candidacy had the potential to be a Northern affair, and he wanted to ensure that the PDP’s presidential ticket was not restricted to a specific geographic area.
Despite being approached by Ayu to withdraw in favor of Atiku, Mohammed stuck to his guns, citing that his decision was not driven by personal or regional sentiment. He instead chose to focus on his campaign, working closely with his colleagues and scattered throughout the country, hosting and being hosted by his fellow governors, including Wike.
In the end, the PDP’s presidential primary produced a different outcome, with Atiku ultimately choosing a different running mate. The decision, however, did not sit well with Wike, who felt humiliated and led to the formation of the G5, a political group comprising some PDP governors who dissatisfied with the party’s leadership.
Mohammed lamented that Atiku’s handling of the situation was wrong, citing that he had failed to provide a clear explanation for his decision to reject Wike’s nomination. He believed that Wike, a seasoned politician, should have taken the decision with grace and respect for his colleagues, rather than publicly expressing his disappointment and resentment.
In hindsight, Mohammed concluded that politics is about live and let live, allowing for others to rise and shine, and that it is essential for leaders to demonstrate empathy and understanding in times of adversity.
