Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum has debunked claims that he is angling for the vice-presidential position ahead of the 2027 general election.
He maintained that choosing a running mate lies solely with the eventual presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Speaking during an interview on Channels TV’s “Politics Today”, Mohammed addressed growing speculation about his political intentions and discussed the PDP’s zoning decisions and strategy moving forward.
“I’m not stepping down because I want to be vice president,” he said.
“If, however, the party leadership and the presidential candidate consider me suitable, I will be ready. But if not, I’ll fully support whoever is chosen.”
Responding to rumours about a possible joint ticket with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Mohammed dismissed the idea as pure speculation.
“Seyi and I have never discussed running together. What we’ve spoken about is reclaiming power to deliver good governance in 2027.”
Governor Bala emphasized that the PDP’s decision to zone the presidential ticket to the South was informed by the party’s experience in the 2023 elections, which he said were a “not pleasant experience.”
“The presidency is a consensus arrangement. I’ve learned that despite leading the governors’ forum, I’m working with equals,” he noted.
To avoid a repeat of the APC’s Muslim-Muslim ticket controversy, he advocated for religious and regional balance.
“We need a Christian presidential candidate from the South, who can choose a Northern Muslim running mate. That balance is important.”
Mohammed revealed that the PDP is already reaching out to political heavyweights as part of broader alliance talks.
“I’ve spoken with former President Goodluck Jonathan and told him that if he runs, I’ll step aside. I’ve also met with Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi. The PDP is open to any credible leader who can help us win.”
He admitted some party members in the North were uneasy about the zoning decision, but said those concerns were manageable.
“Some supporters were unhappy, but they must understand that mutual respect and sacrifice are necessary. Yes, there were complaints, but nothing unmanageable.”
Mohammed also addressed the idea of a one-term agreement for the PDP’s eventual flagbearer, saying the issue would be determined by the party caucus.
“If a one-term agreement is reached, it could reassure regions that feel left out. But that’s a collective decision for later.”
On the issue of perceived cracks within the PDP and rumours that some members are collaborating with the APC and President Bola Tinubu, Mohammed pushed back.
“People may point fingers because of someone like Wike working with Tinubu. But we are not part of that. The PDP is focused, united, and determined to provide Nigerians with a credible alternative in 2027.”
Addressing his personal relationship with Nyesom Wike, he noted that while they are no longer close, there is no hostility between them.
“We had our disagreements, but elders intervened. We’ve moved on. We’re not as close as before, but there’s no bad blood.”
The governor concluded by stressing the importance of a strong opposition in sustaining democracy.
“Our democracy thrives when opposition parties are strong and focused. That’s what we’re building in the PDP.”
