Bala Mohammed denies dumping PDP

• From David Adenuga, Bauchi

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has denied planning to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The governor insisted he remained in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The Nation reports that Mohammed, who doubles as the Chairman of the PDP’s Governors’ Forum (PGF), has been linked to a possible defection from the main opposition party to the ruling APC.

The governor was reportedly weighing the possibility of leaving the PDP, with reports indicating that the move could happen this week.

But speaking on the development after presiding over the swearing-in of 17 newly appointed permanent secretaries at the Government House in Bauchi, Mohammed played down the rumours.

The governor said he had made no official statement about leaving the PDP.

“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.

The governor noted that the speculation reflected his political relevance, describing himself as a figure who attracts wide attention.

“It shows the level of attention and relevance we carry. I am now a global personality all of a sudden,” he stated.

Mohammed promised to grant an interview with Channels Television by 7 p.m.

“Pressmen, no interview for now. I will speak with Channels Television at 7 p.m.,” he said.

The governor briefly reacted to the reports, stating: “I have not moved; they said that I have defected.”

Addressing the newly sworn-in permanent secretaries, he urged 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,” Mohammed said.

The governor also urged the appointees to remain disciplined, avoid acts of insubordination, and stay away from partisan politics while in office.

He urged them to mentor younger civil servants, saying the ongoing reforms in the civil service relied on grooming a new generation grounded in ethics and professionalism.

Mohammed assured the state’s retirees of his administration’s commitment to settling outstanding gratuities put at about ₦20 billion.

The governor announced that payment of 13-year arrears started in January.

The oath of office was administered by the Chief Judge of Bauchi State, Justice Talatu Musa Umar.