Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State and his supporters are expected to formally join the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Thursday, signaling a major political realignment amid ongoing turmoil within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The governor hinted at the move on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of ADC leaders, including Babachir Lawal, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), at the Bauchi Government House.

The defection comes in the wake of a prolonged leadership crisis in the PDP, which intensified following a factional convention led by Kabiru Turaki in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15–16, 2025.

Speaking on the political impasse, Governor Mohammed said, “We have found ourselves in a very serious situation. I have done everything possible to ensure reconciliation, but it has not worked. We set up committees at both national and state levels to explore all options, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), but discovered we are not wanted there.”

While discussions with the ADC are ongoing, the governor indicated the party presents a viable platform. He revealed that Senator David Mark, national chairman of the ADC, extended an invitation to him and his supporters. “I am here with a delegation from the ADC headquarters, led by my mentor, Senator David Mark, who has sent an olive branch to reconnect me with the opposition where I have always emerged from,” Mohammed said.

Highlighting the challenges within the PDP, Mohammed added, “Our party is headless. We have pursued all avenues for reconciliation without success. Our people are putting me under extreme pressure, and we have established committees to explore the way forward. While we left all options open, including the APC, we discovered that we cannot be where we are not wanted. We must find a place within the opposition, and the ADC appears to be a sustainable and acceptable platform.”

Governor Mohammed emphasized that inclusivity remains central to the decision-making process. “We are conscious of the timeline. Everything will be concluded by Thursday, ensuring alignment and full participation,” he said. He added that his responsibilities at both state and national levels necessitate careful engagement with stakeholders to ensure a smooth and error-free transition.

The governor also praised the ADC’s outreach, describing it as timely given the PDP’s internal challenges. “Political strength lies with the electorate, not party structures alone. We believe in winning elections at the polling unit. We are not afraid of anyone. After exhausting all efforts within the PDP, we must now confront the opportunity presented by the ADC,” he concluded.