By Segun Adewale in Bauchi
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), citing prolonged instability and unsuccessful efforts to restore unity within the party structure.
The Governor announced the decision on Saturday, 2 May, 2026 after a high-level meeting with stakeholders from the State, following the Supreme Court judgment on the PDP leadership crisis.
Bala Mohammed said the decision followed extensive consultations and reflects a responsible step to provide Bauchi citizens with a viable political alternative amid what he described as an unusual and challenging situation.
He described the situation within the PDP as “complex and uncertain,” noting that efforts to restore stability in the party had failed to produce results.
According to him, the apex court nullified the parallel conventions conducted by rival factions, leaving both sides without legal standing.
Governor Bala said the development created a vacuum in leadership, making it difficult for the party to move forward effectively, adding that the decision to leave the PDP was taken after wide consultations with political leaders and stakeholders across the country.
The Governor, however, expressed gratitude to the PDP, describing it as a platform that contributed significantly to their political journey.
He emphasized that the move to APM was a “strategic repositioning” aimed at securing political victory and ensuring continuity in governance.
Governor Bala who also stated that the APM provides a credible and legally stable platform for political activities, revealed that a transition plan has already been put in place, including the establishment of a compliance committee and the commencement of membership registration.
Other measures, he added, include engagement with APM leadership at all levels and coordination with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The Governor called on his supporters to remain calm, united, and focused on sustaining progress in the state.
Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the APM, Alhaji Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, has welcomed the Governor, describing him as a true democrat.
He said the party operates on the principles of integrity, sacrifice, and service, with its slogan “Nigeria First.”
Dantalle assured that the APM has no hidden godfather, stressing that the party is guided strictly by its constitution and the will of the people.
He also commended the Governor’s leadership style, particularly his inclusive approach to governance and democratic values.
The announcement was followed by chants of “APM, Nigeria First,” as supporters expressed approval of the defection.
