Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State Accuses Tinubu and Wike of Fueling Factional Crises in Opposition Parties
In an exclusive interview with Daily Trust, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State shed light on the brewing crisis in the opposition parties, specifically the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and Labour Party (LP). He believes that the federal government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is secretly manipulating these parties to create a one-party state.
When asked about the internal issues plaguing the PDP, Governor Mohammed delivered a measured response, stating, “As Chairman of the Governors’ Forum, I must exercise caution when discussing internal matters. However, I can assure you that the governors are united despite differing opinions. We may not always see eye-to-eye, but we are resolute in our commitment to progress.”
He continued, “We must remain vigilant, as the federal government is determined to assert its authority. This is evident in its handling of financial matters and its treatment of labor. This is not exclusive to the PDP; the NNPP and LP have also been infiltrated, as part of a broader strategy to create a one-party state. They wield significant resources, but bad governance will ultimately be their downfall.”
Notably, Governor Mohammed announced that the controversy surrounding Ambassador Umar Iliya Damagum and the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) has been resolved.
Confident that the PDP can resolve its crisis swiftly, he stated, “I’m confident we will. I’ve spoken to both sides, and while some individuals are fueling the fire, it’s essential to ask: Who’s behind this? The answer is Tinubu and Wike.” He further clarified that Wike, a former Governor of Rivers State, cannot simultaneously be a member of the PDP and the APC-led government.
Wike, he emphasized, “cannot serve two masters. In line with natural justice, one can only belong to one entity. You can’t be part of two opposing sides at the same time. As a friend, I’ve told Wike this directly, and I’m not afraid to express it publicly.”
While Governor Mohammed has no personal vendetta against Wike, he believes that Wike’s actions are counterproductive, particularly in light of the party’s 2027 goals. “Party members feel that the current NWC under Ambassador Damagum is leaning towards Wike, which contributes to the issue. We must address this and prioritize the interests of the party,” he concluded.
