Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed Accuses President Tinubu of Being Influenced by Troublemakers in Nigerian Politics.
This outburst comes at a time when Nigerian politics is rife with tensions, particularly within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where internal rifts have been making headlines. Governor Mohammed, a prominent PDP member, used the platform to air his grievances, emphasizing how certain elements around the president are creating chaos. He suggested that these people, including Wike, are more interested in personal agendas than in genuine governance. "The leader of our nation is dealing with a circle of opportunists and mischief-makers," Mohammed remarked, highlighting the internal conflicts that he believes are dragging down the administration.
Delving deeper into his comments, the governor didn't mince words about Wike's role in the PDP. He portrayed the FCT minister as someone who's not truly committed to the party but rather acting as a saboteur from within. Mohammed referred to Wike as a sort of "disruptor" who's burying the party's prospects rather than building them up. This isn't the first time such accusations have flown between the two; their feud has roots in the ongoing PDP crisis, where loyalties are being tested amid Nigeria's broader political landscape.
Mohammed recounted a specific incident where he stood his ground against what he saw as Wike's attempts to seize control within the party. "I was right there at the headquarters when he tried to muscle in," the governor said, stressing that one can't play both sides in politics without consequences. He argued that Wike's alliances seem to lean more toward the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), even while maintaining a foothold in the PDP. This dual positioning, according to Mohammed, violates basic principles of loyalty and nature itself—you simply can't be in two camps at once without causing friction.
The governor's statements underscore the deepening divides in Nigerian politics, where party lines are blurring, and personal ambitions often overshadow national interests. As a key figure in the opposition, Mohammed warned that such behaviors have real repercussions, not just for individuals but for the entire political system. He called for honesty in addressing these issues, even if they appear superficial at first glance. "We're in positions of power today, but that doesn't give us license to act with arrogance or impunity," he added, urging leaders to reflect on their actions before they lead to irreversible damage.
Shifting gears during the interview, Governor Mohammed firmly addressed and denied any connections to banditry, a serious allegation that has been swirling in some circles. Banditry in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions, has been a persistent security challenge, affecting states like Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina with kidnappings, attacks on communities, and economic disruptions. However, Mohammed insisted that Bauchi State stands out as one of the safest in the northeast, if not the entire north. He attributed this to strategic governance, community engagement, and wise policies rather than any underhanded dealings.
"I run a state that's secure through smart approaches, not through any shady means," he explained. The governor expressed frustration over what he views as deliberate smear campaigns aimed at tarnishing his reputation. In Nigerian politics, where opposition figures often face intense scrutiny, such tactics aren't uncommon. Mohammed suggested that these rumors are part of a broader effort to discredit him, especially as a vocal critic of the current administration.
He didn't stop at denial; the governor pointed fingers directly at those he believes are orchestrating the mudslinging. Once again, Nyesom Wike emerged as a central figure in his narrative. Mohammed claimed that the FCT minister had openly threatened to ignite trouble in Bauchi State amid the PDP's internal turmoil. "Someone vowed to set my state ablaze," he said, linking this to the party crisis. This allegation adds fuel to the already heated rivalry between the two politicians, both of whom have risen through the ranks in Nigerian governance—Wike as a former governor of Rivers State and now a federal minister, and Mohammed as the helmsman of Bauchi.
The context of this threat, as per Mohammed, stems from the PDP's leadership struggles, where factions are vying for control. Wike, known for his outspoken style and political maneuvering, has been at odds with several PDP stalwarts, including those aligned with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Mohammed's position in the party places him in opposition to Wike's influence, leading to what he describes as targeted attacks on his character.
Beyond the personal jabs, the governor highlighted how these accusations could erode his integrity as a public servant. "As a politician with a track record, having my name dragged through the mud over something like banditry is devastating," he shared. He even mentioned a family member—a nephew—who was falsely implicated in unrelated corruption charges, which he dismissed as baseless. In Nigeria's political arena, where family ties often intersect with public life, such claims can have ripple effects, damaging not just reputations but also electoral prospects.
To counter these narratives, Mohammed revealed his plans to take formal action. He has already reached out to the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), copying relevant security agencies, to seek clarification and protection. But he didn't stop there; the governor intends to escalate the matter internationally, appealing to global bodies for safeguarding his fundamental human rights. "This feels like victimization, and I won't stand by idly," he asserted. In a country where political persecution allegations are frequent, this move could draw attention from human rights organizations and international observers monitoring Nigeria's democracy.
This isn't just about one governor's grievances; it reflects broader challenges in Nigerian politics. The PDP crisis has been brewing since the 2023 elections, with internal divisions weakening the party's ability to challenge the APC effectively. Figures like Wike, who supported Tinubu's candidacy despite being in the PDP, exemplify the cross-party alliances that complicate the political scene. President Tinubu, since assuming office, has faced criticisms over his cabinet choices and handling of security issues, including banditry in the north.
Mohammed's interview also touches on the temptations he faces as an opposition leader. He admitted that some have encouraged him to defect to the APC, while others, like Wike, oppose it—perhaps seeing him as a threat. Yet, the governor remains steadfast in his PDP affiliation, viewing the party as a vehicle for progressive change. His comments on the president's entourage suggest a belief that Tinubu's administration is hampered by internal saboteurs, which could explain some of the policy inconsistencies Nigerians have observed.
In terms of security, Bauchi's relative stability under Mohammed's watch is noteworthy. The state has implemented community-based initiatives, intelligence gathering, and collaborations with federal forces to curb insecurity. This contrasts with neighboring states plagued by banditry, where armed groups exploit ungoverned spaces for criminal activities. Mohammed's denial isn't just defensive; it's a reaffirmation of his governance model, which prioritizes tact and wisdom over force.
Looking ahead, the fallout from this interview could intensify the PDP's internal battles. Will Wike respond? As FCT minister, he's focused on Abuja's development, but his political ambitions—rumored to include higher office—keep him in the spotlight. President Tinubu, meanwhile, might need to address these claims to maintain unity within his team. For ordinary Nigerians, tired of political drama, such episodes highlight the need for leaders who prioritize national unity over personal vendettas.
Governor Bala Mohammed's appearance on Channels Television serves as a reminder of the raw, unfiltered nature of Nigerian politics. It's a space where accusations fly, loyalties shift, and reputations are on the line. By humanizing his stance—speaking as a governor concerned for his state and his name—Mohammed invites the public to question the motives behind the power plays. Whether this leads to reconciliation or further conflict remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: in Nigeria's dynamic political landscape, no one is immune to the flames of controversy.
As the story unfolds, stakeholders in Nigerian politics, from PDP members to APC insiders, will be watching closely. Issues like banditry allegations, party loyalty, and leadership integrity aren't just fodder for headlines; they shape the nation's future. Mohammed's call for honesty and accountability resonates in a time when trust in government is fragile. Perhaps this moment will prompt a broader dialogue on reforming political practices to reduce impunity and foster genuine progress.
In wrapping up, it's worth noting how these events tie into larger themes. The northeast, including Bauchi, has overcome significant hurdles from Boko Haram insurgency to economic challenges. Governors like Mohammed play crucial roles in stabilizing regions, making baseless accusations particularly harmful. Similarly, the FCT under Wike has seen infrastructure pushes, but political distractions could undermine those efforts. Ultimately, for President Tinubu's administration to succeed, addressing internal "drags"—as Mohammed puts it—might be essential. Nigerian citizens deserve leaders focused on solutions, not skirmishes.
This episode also spotlights the media's role in amplifying voices. Channels Television provided the platform, allowing unvarnished views to reach millions. In an era of social media echo chambers, such interviews offer depth, helping the public navigate complex narratives. As we move forward in 2026, with elections on the horizon, expect more such revelations in the ever-evolving saga of Nigerian politics.
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