Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed Visits President Tinubu Amid Security Crisis, Reaffirms PDP Allegiance
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State visited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday, February 27, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, focusing on urgent security matters rather than political maneuvering. This meeting occurs in the wake of Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), leaving Mohammed as the sole PDP governor in Nigeria's North East region.
Governor Mohammed Emphasizes Governance Over Politics
In a statement reported by Daily Trust, Governor Mohammed clarified that his visit was strictly for governance and partnership, not politics or defection. He asserted, "I am a PDP man. I am not here for politics or defection. I am here for governance and partnership. This is a time to collaborate with the Federal Government in the national interest, particularly on security." This declaration underscores his commitment to the PDP while seeking federal support to address critical issues in Bauchi State.
Escalating Security Concerns in Bauchi State
Governor Mohammed highlighted the severe security challenges plaguing Bauchi, where armed bandits and criminal elements have clashed with security agencies, causing widespread panic. He noted that many residents have fled to neighboring local governments and states for safety. To address this, he personally visited affected areas with security heads, assessed the situation, and compiled a report presented to President Tinubu, requesting special intervention. Mohammed reported a positive response, stating, "The response has been very positive. He has given directives and assured us of federal support."
Recent Tragic Incidents in Bauchi
The security crisis in Bauchi has been marked by several violent incidents. Recently, the Bauchi State Police Command mourned the loss of five officers killed by armed bandits, with two others injured, as confirmed by State Police Public Relations Officer CSP Ahmed Wakil. In a separate attack, gunmen suspected to be kidnappers struck Zalau village, killing an Islamic cleric and abducting his wife and daughter, leaving the community in shock and fear. Police authorities have yet to issue an official response, with residents praying for the victims' safe return.
Context of Political Shifts in the North East
Governor Mohammed's visit follows Governor Fintiri's defection to the APC, a move that has reshaped the political landscape in the North East. As the lone PDP governor in the region, Mohammed's meeting with President Tinubu demonstrates a focus on bipartisan cooperation to tackle pressing security issues, rather than engaging in partisan politics. This approach highlights the growing need for collaborative governance amid rising insecurity across Nigeria.
The federal government's assurance of support signals a potential boost to security efforts in Bauchi, as Governor Mohammed continues to advocate for his state's safety and stability, reinforcing his role as a PDP leader committed to effective governance.
