In a revealing interview with Daily Trust, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed shared his thoughts on the growing divide within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). He opened up about the tensions between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, himself, and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, particularly after the fallout over the 2023 PDP presidential primaries.
Governor Mohammed voiced his respect for Atiku, calling him a “leader” who has shown restraint. “Atiku is our leader, and he has shown remarkable maturity,” he said. “Since this issue began, have you heard Atiku’s voice in it? He’s stayed quiet.”
But for Governor Mohammed, there’s more than meets the eye in the PDP’s internal politics. He explained that while public statements are minimal, much of the real work happens “behind the scenes.” He compared this to boardroom dynamics, where silent maneuvering is common.
Mohammed revealed that he initially supported Wike, who had been a major figure in the PDP. Wike’s contributions to the party, he said, were substantial. “I sympathized with Wike because he was hurt by Atiku’s candidacy,” Mohammed explained.
“When I saw how hurt he was, I felt for him,” he continued, recalling how Wike had long supported others within the PDP. However, as the party dynamics shifted, Wike found himself increasingly sidelined.
The unfolding drama within the PDP took a turn during the presidential primaries. Governor Mohammed admitted that although other governors had pulled back to support Atiku, he stood firm. “I didn’t want the ticket to become a northern affair,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to representing the entire country.
Reflecting on why he didn’t step aside for Wike during the primaries, Mohammed explained his stance on national unity. “Because I’m a nationalist,” he asserted. “I don’t represent just the North or the South—I represent the entire country.”
The governor said he was asked by then-PDP Chairman Dr. Iyorchia Ayu to withdraw his candidacy in favor of Atiku. However, he resisted the suggestion, telling Atiku that if anyone were to step aside, it shouldn’t be for him. “I even told Atiku, ‘Leave it for me, as your younger brother—I’ll do it for you,’” he shared.
Despite the mutual support he shared with Wike, including visits to each other’s states, the fallout only deepened after Atiku’s controversial decision to exclude Wike from the vice-presidential ticket.
Governor Mohammed explained that, following the primaries, Atiku established a committee with the purpose of choosing a vice-presidential candidate for the PDP ticket. According to Mohammed, every governor, the National Working Committee (NWC), and other party stakeholders backed Wike for the role. Yet, Atiku declined to follow their recommendation.
“The decision hurt us deeply,” Mohammed revealed, expressing disappointment over Atiku’s lack of justification. “No! There were no reasons; just insults,” he emphasized. “That’s why I pitied Wike. He was humiliated at the primaries, and then this happened.”
The former vice president’s refusal to provide reasons for his choice has left a bitter taste for many within the party. Mohammed believes this led to the formation of the G5, a faction of governors who felt alienated by the PDP’s internal politics.
Despite his sympathy for Wike, Governor Mohammed stressed that respect should be mutual. He believes that while Atiku may have made mistakes, he has managed to remain “statesmanlike” by staying out of the public fray. “To his credit, Atiku has remained statesmanlike, staying quiet and not imposing himself. That’s why I respect him,” Mohammed said.
He also offered some advice to Wike, acknowledging his political prowess while encouraging him to adopt a more restrained approach. “I believe Wike should also respect himself—he’s a skilled politician,” Mohammed stated.
For Governor Mohammed, the solution lies in mutual respect and allowing space for others within the political sphere. “Politics is about live and let live,” he remarked. “It’s an opportunity for everyone, and we should allow space for others to rise.”
The remarks from Governor Mohammed come at a crucial time as the PDP faces challenges not just from within but from rival parties, particularly the All Progressives Congress (APC). While the APC has its own internal divisions, the unity or disunity within the PDP could significantly impact its performance in the next election cycle.
Governor Mohammed’s statements reflect both his personal allegiance to the party and his frustrations with its inner workings. He believes that while internal disagreements are natural, the focus should be on strengthening the party, not dividing it further.
The events surrounding Atiku, Wike, and the other PDP leaders continue to serve as a reminder of the complex dynamics within Nigerian politics. The PDP’s regional and ideological divisions reflect larger tensions across the country.
