The All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus from Bauchi State in the National Assembly has established a special committee to manage the potential political shift of Governor Bala Mohammed into the party.
The decision came after a contentious meeting in Abuja, where members expressed deep divisions over the implications of the governor’s planned defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The acting secretary of the caucus, Dabo Ismail, announced that the committee would set out clear conditions and expectations should the governor eventually join the APC.
He added that the team would engage key stakeholders and serve as the caucus’s representatives in all negotiations involving possible defections from the PDP-led administration. “The committee will also keep members updated on the progress of discussions,” Ismail said.
While welcoming the governor’s potential move, Ismail urged the party’s national leadership to ensure that state stakeholders are meaningfully involved in the process. He described the committee’s formation as a “democratic mechanism” aimed at managing differing opinions while preserving party unity. However, concerns were raised about the manner in which the issue has been handled so far.
Senator Sama’ila Dahuwa, who represents Bauchi North and chairs the caucus, criticised the APC’s national leadership for failing to consult the state caucus before taking steps on such a significant matter. He described the lack of consultation as “unacceptable” and warned against imposing decisions on party members without proper engagement. The committee includes senior party figures such as a serving minister, former governors, and two senators.
The caucus also resolved to formally present its concerns to the party’s national leadership, insisting that due process must be followed. The development highlights ongoing tensions within the APC as it navigates potential high-profile defections ahead of future electoral contests.
