APC Deal Collapses as Bala Mohammed Halts Planned Defection Over Power Struggle

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The proposed defection of Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has fallen through following unresolved disagreements over a power-sharing arrangement.

The high-level negotiations, which involved the governor’s Turaki-led faction within the PDP and key figures in the APC leadership, ended in a deadlock after the ruling party reportedly rejected a proposed 60–40 formula for the control of party structures in Bauchi State.

Sources within the discussions revealed that the 60–40 arrangement was central to the governor’s camp, as it would have allowed his political structure to retain significant influence within the APC framework upon defection. However, the APC leadership was said to be unwilling to concede such a level of control, leading to the collapse of the talks.

Despite the breakdown in negotiations, the governor and his loyalists have not ruled out the possibility of leaving the PDP. Instead, they have indicated a willingness to explore alliances with other political parties, suggesting that consultations are ongoing at various levels, from ward structures to the state hierarchy.

Speaking to journalists on Saturday, the Chairman of the Turaki-led PDP faction in Bauchi State, Sama’ila Burga, confirmed the development, stating that the APC’s stance demonstrated a lack of readiness to accommodate the existing PDP structure and the state government led by Mohammed.

According to Burga, the APC had initially shown strong interest in bringing the Bauchi governor into its fold and even initiated contact through multiple channels. He disclosed that part of the effort included the involvement of the Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, who visited Bauchi in a bid to persuade Mohammed to defect.

“The discussions were extensive and involved both national and regional stakeholders,” Burga explained. “However, they ultimately stalled when the APC failed to agree to the proposed sharing formula, which has been applied in similar political realignments in other states.”

The failed defection attempt underscores the growing political maneuvering ahead of future elections, as parties and influential figures continue to reposition for strategic advantage. Analysts say the disagreement highlights the challenges of integrating established political structures during high-profile defections, particularly when issues of control and influence come into play.

For now, Governor Mohammed remains within the PDP, but the unfolding developments suggest that Bauchi State could witness further political realignments in the coming months as consultations continue and new alliances are explored.