Bala Mohammed, the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, has criticized party leaders for defecting to a “party that has no office.”
Speaking at the ongoing Consultative Conference for PDP Founding Fathers and Stakeholders in Abuja, Governor Mohammed expressed his disapproval of leaders claiming dual party memberships. He emphasized that abandoning a robust platform like the PDP for a coalition lacking a solid foundation is misguided.
Recent defections include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Senate President David Mark, who have joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition.
During his address to the elders present, the Governor stated: “The PDP has a rich history, a legacy, and an established structure, and the governors are striving to uphold this. However, we are facing challenges, and we should not shy away from discussing them.
“Politics is inherently local. Some may leave for various reasons, but I believe they will ultimately regret their decisions. We do not wish to belittle or insult those who have departed; rather, we respectfully urge them to return. This is the foundation they helped build. When there are governors, senators, and local government leaders, why join a party with no infrastructure? It’s a misguided choice.
“Perhaps they are pursuing their ambitions in hopes of securing party tickets, but is it worth risking a loss? We invite you back. There is no justification for leaving.”
He lamented the situation within the party, stating: “We cannot allow indiscipline to reach a point of contagion. If you are in the PDP, commit to it. You cannot belong to the PDP while also being in coalition with another party. Coalition politics is an aberration.
“You cannot exist in two places simultaneously. Choose your path. Nevertheless, we will allow you space for contemplation, as you are our leaders.
“However, if you do choose to leave, do not undermine us. Demarketing the PDP is unjust. Most of you achieved your political goals through this party. Some who departed contributed to our losses in 2015, yet we welcomed them back. Many became governors and secured tickets, which often only happens within the PDP.”
