A fresh political rift has emerged between Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed following a heated exchange over the crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the governor’s reported plan to defect.

The dispute comes amid indications that Mohammed may leave the PDP for either the All Progressives Congress (APC) or the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as internal divisions continue to weaken the opposition party. Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, blamed Wike for the lingering crisis, saying repeated reconciliation efforts had failed. He disclosed that he had met several stakeholders, including President Bola Tinubu, in attempts to stabilise the party but without success.

The Bauchi governor confirmed ongoing consultations with both APC and ADC leaders, noting that while discussions were still in progress, the ADC appeared more open to receiving him. He added that a final decision on his political future would be announced soon, as efforts continue to avoid missteps in the realignment process.

Amid the uncertainty, Mohammed has hosted delegations from both parties at the Bauchi Government House, fuelling speculation over his next move. Sources indicated that the APC leadership is making efforts to persuade him to abandon any plan to join the ADC and instead align with the ruling party.

Responding sharply, Wike dismissed Mohammed’s potential exit from the PDP, describing it as “good riddance” and accusing the governor of political inconsistency and self-serving negotiations. He alleged that Mohammed held multiple meetings with President Tinubu in a bid to secure concessions for entry into the APC, including influence over succession arrangements and political appointments, which he claimed were rejected.

Wike further accused the governor of attempting to negotiate positions within the PDP’s leadership structure, including the office of National Secretary, but said such demands were resisted. He argued that Mohammed’s actions reflected a lack of political stability, adding that the PDP would be better off without members who are not firmly committed to resolving its internal challenges.

The minister also questioned Mohammed’s political alignment with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, alleging that the governor had privately expressed doubts about Atiku’s prospects while publicly maintaining loyalty. He described this as evidence of inconsistent political positioning that has contributed to Mohammed’s current predicament.

As the standoff deepens, Mohammed’s next move remains uncertain, with both APC and ADC closely monitoring developments. The unfolding situation highlights the widening cracks within the PDP and points to possible political realignments that could influence the balance of power ahead of the 2027 general elections.