As political permutations ahead of the 2027 general elections intensify, a group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi State has called on Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed to join the ruling party, describing the move as a strategic step toward electoral victory.

Speaking at the NUJ Press Centre, the leader of the Concerned APC Members, Aliyu Abdullahi Ilelah, said integrating the governor and his political structure into the APC would significantly strengthen the party’s chances in the state and at the national level.

He argued that merging the structure of a sitting government with that of the APC would provide a strong platform for success in the 2027 polls, including support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The group’s position comes amid conflicting signals within the Bauchi APC, following a reported rejection of the governor’s defection by a caucus. Ilelah, however, maintained that the rejection does not reflect the broader views within the party.

He emphasised the need for inclusiveness, dialogue and strategic alignment, urging party stakeholders to focus on governance and policies that improve the lives of citizens rather than internal disputes.

The group also called on party members to accept new entrants in the spirit of unity, noting that political realignments remain a key feature of Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.