Dare Babalola
The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has refuted allegations of his potential departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), reaffirming his allegiance to the PDP.
The Governor, who also holds the position of Chairman of the PDP Governors‘ Forum, had recently been the focus of speculation regarding his potential departure from the opposition party, with certain reports suggesting that such a transition was anticipated to occur in the immediate term, possibly within the week.
However, in response to the speculation, the governor, shortly after overseeing the swearing-in ceremony of 17 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries at the Government House in Bauchi on Wednesday, dismissed the claims, noting that he had not issued any official statement signifying an intention to relinquish his membership of the PDP.
He maintained that the reports were unfounded, reaffirming his continued membership of the party.
“I find it amusing that even when I have not said anything officially, people are already discussing me as if I have moved,” he said.
He added that the speculation reflects his political relevance, describing himself as a figure attracting wide attention.
“It shows the level of attention and relevance we carry. I am now a global personality all of a sudden,” he stated.
He, however, briefly reacted to the reports, stating, “I have not moved; they said that I have defected.”
Addressing the appointed Permanent Secretaries, the governor charged them to uphold integrity and steer clear of corruption in the discharge of their duties.
“This administration will not tolerate corruption or any act capable of bringing the government into disrepute,” he said.
Mohammed urged the appointees to remain disciplined, avoid acts of insubordination, and stay away from partisan politics while in office.
He also tasked them with mentoring younger civil servants, adding that ongoing reforms in the civil service rely on grooming a new generation grounded in ethics and professionalism.
He assured retirees of his administration’s commitment to settling outstanding gratuities put at about ₦20 billion, noting that payment of 13-year arrears commenced in January 2026.
The oath of office was administered by the Chief Judge of Bauchi State, Justice Talatu Musa Umar.
