The Bauchi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced that it is ready to receive the state Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, as he prepares to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
This was disclosed by members of the State APC Caucus following a meeting with Governor Mohammed at his Abuja residence on Wednesday.
It would be recalled that the caucus had earlier constituted a committee to address issues surrounding the governor’s planned defection, which had generated concerns among stakeholders.
Consequently, consultation were widely held and an amicable decision arrived at.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting on Thursday, the Secretary of the Bauchi State APC Caucus and member representing Toro Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Dabo Isma’il, confirmed that the discussions centered on the governor’s planned move to the APC.
He said: “We, as APC members in the state, have been meeting. Yesterday, we met with His Excellency, the Governor of Bauchi State, after our caucus meeting at Transcorp Hilton.
“He invited us and briefed us on developments from his side. We had a fruitful engagement with him.
“After the meeting, we reconvened as a caucus to brief the larger house on our discussions with the governor regarding his planned defection.
“We emphasized the need to align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President, which includes encouraging more people especially a sitting governor to join our party.
“The party’s national leadership has urged unity and called on us to welcome the governor. Other issues can be addressed after successfully bringing him into the party.
“The National Chairman, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Vice President have all engaged the governor, encouraging him to join the APC.
“As lawmakers and stakeholders, we were consulted to ensure amicable discussions and agreements on how he will join the party. That is what led to today’s meeting.
“All critical stakeholders were present, and we will continue engagements on his planned defection.
“It is a welcome development. We urge all party members in Bauchi State to embrace it.
“I assure our members that no one will be witch hunted or shortchanged. We are building a more formidable party. The governor has expressed readiness to work with all members at every level.
“As leaders, we must engage to protect the interests of our members and people. We will continue consultations and keep members informed. Everyone should be assured that their interests will be protected”.
In his remarks, a former governor of the state and former Minister of Aviation, Mallam Isa Yuguda, emphasized the importance of unity within the party.
He said: “No matter what we achieve, if we don’t win elections, it amounts to nothing. Our goal is to win elections decisively and peacefully.
“We remain loyal to our leaders and committed to the party’s direction. We must work together, close ranks, and strengthen unity to ensure success in the upcoming general elections.
“We welcome this development and reaffirm our loyalty and support for the party”, he stated.
Also speaking, the member representing Dass/Bogoro/Tafawa Balewa Federal Constituency, Hon. Jafaru Gambo Leko, said the consultations were aimed at fostering unity, fairness, and justice among party members.
He added: “We will continue consultations to ensure every concern is heard and addressed. As representatives of the people, we remain committed to promoting unity.
“We thank everyone for their participation and pray for continued guidance”.
