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The Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bauchi State, loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Mannasseh Marti, has dismissed concerns over an internal crisis, insisting that the party remains strong and well positioned to retain power in the 2027 governorship election.
Speaking on Friday amid speculation over a possible defection by Governor Bala Mohammed, the party spokesman said the PDP still enjoys the confidence of the people and has made significant impact in the state since 2019.
“Bauchi State is the home of PDP, and you can see from 2019 till date what the party has done. The masses are okay with us. They have confidence that this is the party that has raised hope and improved the standard of living, especially in Bauchi State,” he said.
The publicity secretary added that, contrary to claims of internal divisions, the PDP has resolved its challenges and is now focused on the 2027 elections.
“There is no more crisis. We now have a party that is free of litigation and ready to present candidates who can win in 2027. The masses and aspirants are aware that PDP is prepared to retain Government House,” he stated.
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He acknowledged that internal disagreements are not unusual in political parties, describing them as tests of loyalty and commitment.
“We know that in every party, situations arise that test commitment. It is like a man leaving his wife—when it happens, you find a way to resolve it,” he said.
On the speculation surrounding Governor Mohammed’s possible exit from the party, the spokesman urged him to reconsider, adding that the party remains open to reconciliation.
“We expect Bala Mohammed to find a way out of this issue. Our leader has always been open to dialogue, calling his people to sit and resolve issues. PDP is ready to accept reconciliation so he can continue what he started in the party,” he added.
He also stressed that the governor’s political rise was closely tied to the PDP, noting that he has a responsibility to help stabilise the party.
“It was PDP that gave him the platform to become governor, and he is duty-bound to ensure that all issues are handled amicably,” he said.
Despite the uncertainty, he expressed confidence that the party would remain strong even if the governor decides to leave.
“Bala Mohammed knows that if he leaves PDP, the party will still remain. The flag may go down for a short time, but I can assure you it will rise again before 2027,” he said.
The publicity secretary, however, warned that leaving the PDP may not offer an easier political path for the governor.
“Anywhere he moves, he is going to face challenges. I don’t know whether from there he will retire from active politics,” he added.
He expressed optimism that the governor would make the right decision, noting that many supporters in Bauchi are hopeful he will remain in the party.
“We believe the people of Bauchi State will be glad if His Excellency makes the right decision,” he said.
He also congratulated Haruna Mohammed Jungudo, who recently emerged as the National Publicity Secretary of the party, adding that Wike has brought stability to the party.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has reacted to the call made by the African Democratic Congress, ADC, for its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan to resign immediately.
During their World Press Conference in Abuja on Thursday, ADC, through its national Chairman, David Mark called for the sack or resignation of Amupitan, alleging partisan bias.
This was on account of the decision of the Commission to remove the name of the party’s leaders from its portal a decision it described as obedience to a recent Court of Appeal Judgment.
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The Commission said it recognises the right of stakeholders to express their views, but said it was imperative to clarify that INEC is a creation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
A statement signed by Adedayo Oketola, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman noted that the appointment, tenure, and removal of the Chairman and National Commissioners are strictly governed by Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“The Chairman does not hold office at the pleasure of any political party or interest group. Any call for removal outside the established constitutional process is not only a distraction but a direct assault on the independence of the nation’s electoral umpire,” it said.
“While a political party or a group is allowed to protect their interest, the Commission decided to comply with the Judgment of the Court of Appeal to avert a situation that occurred in Zamfara State and Plateau State where elected officials were removed by the Election Tribunal on account of the disobedience of Court Judgment.
