By Peter Omopo
Abuja, July 19, 2025 — The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum and Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has called on party members and former stakeholders to remain loyal to the party, warning against what he described as politically unwise defections and coalitions with rival parties.
Speaking during a political gathering in Abuja, Governor Mohammed said the PDP, with its nationwide structure, long-standing legacy, and proven record of governance, remains a strong platform for politicians seeking to serve the Nigerian people.
“If somebody wants to leave PDP to go to another place, how is that smart thinking?” the Forum Chairman queried. “The PDP has history, a legacy, a structure in every state, and our governors are doing their best. Those who are leaving will be proved wrong.”
He acknowledged that some defections may be motivated by political calculations or personal ambition but insisted that leaving the PDP for parties with little or no grassroots presence was a strategic misstep.
“Our elders who have left — we don’t want to diminish or abuse them. We are appealing to them with humility: come back,” he said. “This is the house you helped build. You’re going to parties with no offices, no structure. That is political malpractice.”
Mohammed emphasized that all PDP governors were committed to good governance and development in their states, asserting that the party remains the most viable option for national progress.
While reiterating the party’s tolerance, he cautioned against dual loyalty and attempts to weaken the party from within.
“You cannot be in PDP and in coalition with another party. That’s an aberration. You can’t be an Aphrodite — you can’t be both man and woman at the same time. Be who you are,” he said. “We will still give space for reflection because you are our leaders, but don’t demarket us.”
The governor condemned acts of disloyalty and reminded defectors that many had risen through the PDP ranks to secure political positions, including governorship tickets and other offices.
“Many of them left us in 2015, which contributed to our loss, yet we still welcomed them back. Some became governors again. That generosity is unique to the PDP,” he said.
Despite recent internal tensions, Mohammed stressed that the party would continue to uphold discipline, unity, and respect, but warned that mutual respect must be reciprocated.
“We are not afraid of anyone in politics,” he concluded, “but we demand fairness and loyalty from those who once thrived under the PDP banner.”
