Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has criticized Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, for his attacks on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. Dogara expressed shock over Mohammed’s remarks against Wike, reminding the governor that Wike played a key role in financing his election campaign. Wike’s Role in Mohammed’s Election Victory In a detailed statement on Tuesday, Dogara recounted how Mohammed, despite being a former minister, lacked the financial resources to fund his governorship bid. He revealed that Wike not only influenced the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) primaries in Mohammed’s favor but also provided him with the financial and logistical support needed to win the election. The former Speaker emphasized that many, including himself, who supported Mohammed’s governorship ambition, were surprised to learn that he had no money for his campaign. Wike vs. Mohammed: A Brewing Political Feud The conflict between Wike and Mohammed has escalated in recent weeks. Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, described Wike as a “transactional politician” driven by personal interests. He further labeled Wike as a “serial betrayer” and suggested he should resign from the PDP and join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). However, Dogara countered Mohammed’s statements, calling them acts of betrayal and ingratitude towards Wike, who played a significant role in his political career. Dogara: “Let the Truth Be Told” Dogara stated that as someone deeply involved in the political dealings between Mohammed and Wike, he could not remain silent. He clarified that he was not defending Wike but merely revealing the truth. He recounted how, during the 2018 PDP gubernatorial primaries, he sought Wike’s assistance without initially disclosing that they were supporting Mohammed. Wike assured Dogara of his support, took control of the primary election process, and even provided a private jet to facilitate key logistics. Wike’s Financial Support During the General Elections After securing the PDP ticket, Mohammed struggled to fund his campaign. Dogara revealed that a fundraiser was organized, but it yielded only ₦48 million, with ₦20 million already spent on organizing the event. Realizing the dire situation, Dogara and other party stakeholders turned to Wike for help. Despite previous grievances with Mohammed, Wike agreed to assist, handing over significant financial support to fund the campaign. Dogara recalled how Wike confronted Mohammed over past issues but eventually forgave him, provided him with financial aid, and even arranged a private jet for his return to Abuja. Mohammed’s Alleged Pattern of Betrayal Dogara concluded that Mohammed has a history of betraying those who helped him politically. He cited Mohammed’s past disagreements with his political godfather, Alhaji Bello Kirfi, a respected elder statesman and former minister. Emphasizing Wike’s generosity, Dogara questioned Mohammed’s decision to attack someone who had once been his benefactor. He reminded Mohammed of his past praises for Wike, where he once described him as “courageous, focused, and competent to help salvage Nigeria.” Conclusion: Political Loyalty and Betrayal Dogara’s revelations paint a picture of political dynamics where alliances shift, and loyalty is often short-lived. The unfolding conflict between Mohammed and Wike highlights the tensions within the PDP as party members navigate political survival. As the feud intensifies, it remains to be seen how this power struggle will impact both politicians’ futures and the party’s stability. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
As Nigeria inches closer to the second anniversary of the 2023 elections, the political landscape is already heating up with speculations and maneuvers for 2027. Politicians and citizens alike are beginning to shift their focus toward the next presidential race, a testament to the dynamic nature of democracy. Northern Political Divide Over Tinubu’s Second Term Recent statements from key Northern politicians and activists reveal a growing opposition to President Bola Tinubu’s potential re-election. However, the North, particularly its politically dominant Muslim bloc, remains deeply divided on the matter. In 2023, this same faction, alongside the South West, played a crucial role in Tinubu’s electoral victory. Now, discontent is brewing due to economic hardship, escalating insecurity, and perceived nepotism under his administration. Adding fuel to the fire, Tinubu’s ambitious tax reforms, especially the VAT derivation policy favoring revenue-generating states, have sparked tensions with many Northern leaders. The resistance is evident across party lines, with some openly threatening to use the North’s electoral power against Tinubu in 2027. Bala Mohammed: A Potential Challenger or a Deal Maker? Among those leading the charge is Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum. He recently warned that the North would show Tinubu their “hue” in the next election. Bala, who contested the PDP presidential primaries in 2022 before securing his second-term governorship ticket, is widely believed to be positioning himself as the North’s main contender against Tinubu. However, Bala’s political history suggests he is also a shrewd negotiator. As a former ANPP Senator, he played a pivotal role in the Doctrine of Necessity, which allowed Goodluck Jonathan to assume the presidency after Umaru Yar’Adua’s death. Jonathan later rewarded him with the FCT Ministerial position. Bala’s track record of party-switching and backdoor negotiations raises the possibility that he may yet strike a deal with Tinubu before 2027, especially if political survival demands it. Yerima Shettima: A Noisemaker Without Electoral Influence In stark contrast to Bala Mohammed, Yerima Shettima, leader of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) and the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF), lacks any real political influence but continues to stoke regional sentiments. His history of controversial outbursts, including the infamous 2017 “Igbo quit notice”, has earned him notoriety rather than respect. Despite sharing a last name with Vice President Kashim Shettima, Yerima has no significant political standing. His inflammatory rhetoric against the Igbo, including a leaked conversation with former Ogun Governor Ibikunle Amosun, has only fueled ethnic divisions rather than contributed to any meaningful national discourse. Unlike leaders who actively seek solutions to the North’s challenges—such as poverty, insecurity, and the almajiri crisis—Yerima thrives on regional antagonism and should not be taken seriously. The Reality of Power in Nigeria Contrary to claims that the North can singlehandedly unseat Tinubu, Nigerian democracy necessitates strategic alliances. Even during the military era, power transitions required broad-based support. Today, a Northern candidate must forge coalitions with major voting blocs, such as the South West, South East, or South-South, to pose a real challenge. Moreover, ousting an incumbent president in Nigeria’s political landscape is an uphill battle. Unless there is a national crisis or a widespread loss of confidence, the sitting president enjoys a significant advantage. Tinubu, despite his governance challenges, is unlikely to relinquish his second-term bid without a fierce fight. In the second part of this analysis, we will explore further political dynamics and conditions that could influence the 2027 elections. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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The National President of the Peoples Democratic Party Youth Frontiers Network (PDP-YFN), Comrade Isah Ibrahim, has issued a stern warning to Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, urging him to refrain from making derogatory and unwarranted comments about the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike. In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, Ibrahim criticized Governor Mohammed’s remarks, describing them as baseless and harmful to the unity and reputation of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). According to him, Bala Mohammed’s recent behavior portrays him as a liability to the party. A Call for Decency Within the PDP The youth group firmly suggested that if anyone should leave the PDP, it should be Bala Mohammed. Comrade Ibrahim stated that Governor Mohammed’s public outbursts expose him as a politician attempting to use the PDP for personal ambitions, urging him to leave the party and pursue his goals elsewhere. “Bala Mohammed should either stop disgracing the PDP or step aside to allow committed members to rebuild the party,” Ibrahim emphasized. Tax Reforms and Misplaced Criticisms The PDP-YFN President further accused Governor Mohammed of using PDP as a platform for unjustified criticisms of federal policies, particularly the recently endorsed tax reform bills. Ibrahim pointed out that the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, of which Mohammed is a member, had already approved these reforms. He added that Mohammed’s persistence in misrepresenting the North and presenting himself as a critic of Wike’s initiatives highlights his misunderstanding of government policies. Political Ambitions at Play? The youth group alleged that Governor Mohammed’s actions stem from his aspirations to become the PDP’s presidential candidate for the 2027 elections. This, they believe, explains his continuous attacks on Wike, whom he views as an obstacle to his ambitions. “Governor Mohammed’s obsession with undermining Wike has turned him into a figure of ridicule, tarnishing the image of the PDP,” Ibrahim remarked. Wike’s Leadership Praised In contrast, Comrade Ibrahim praised Wike for his effective leadership as the FCT Minister, emphasizing that Wike’s achievements far surpass Bala Mohammed’s record as a senator, minister, and governor. He noted that Wike’s impact demonstrates what true PDP leadership can achieve when entrusted with public office. Conclusion: A Call to Focus on Party Unity The PDP-YFN concluded by urging Wike to disregard Governor Mohammed’s “tantrums” and continue his exemplary leadership. According to Ibrahim, Wike’s leadership is vital in protecting the PDP from politicians seeking to exploit the party for personal gain. “Wike should remain focused on strengthening the PDP, while Bala Mohammed must either correct his ways or step aside,” Ibrahim said. Key Takeaways: By maintaining its focus on unity and impactful leadership, the PDP aims to strengthen its position as a formidable force in Nigerian politics. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed sacks five commissioners in a cabinet reshuffle aimed at improving governance and service delivery in Bauchi State. Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has dismissed five commissioners as part of a cabinet reshuffle aimed at enhancing governance and ensuring improved service delivery. The announcement was made in a press statement by his media aide, Mukhtar Gidado, on Tuesday in Bauchi. Commissioners Affected by the Reshuffle The commissioners affected by the shake-up include: Governor’s Reason for the Dismissal According to Gidado, the decision aligns with the governor’s objective of introducing fresh perspectives and energy into the state’s governance framework. This step aims to strengthen the administration’s effectiveness and address emerging challenges within the state. “The governor has approved a cabinet reconstitution as part of his strategic efforts to improve governance and service delivery across Bauchi State,” Gidado stated. He further noted that this reshuffle is a standard administrative measure taken to ensure the government continues to function efficiently. Appreciation for the Outgoing Commissioners Governor Mohammed expressed gratitude to the outgoing commissioners for their dedication and contributions to the state’s development. He acknowledged their roles in advancing key policies and initiatives of the administration and wished them success in their future endeavors. New Commissioner Nominees To fill the vacancies, Governor Mohammed has submitted the names of eight commissioner nominees to the Bauchi State House of Assembly for approval. The nominees include: Commitment to Improved Governance The administration reaffirmed its dedication to fulfilling its mandate by delivering impactful development projects and enhancing the welfare of all Bauchi State residents. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
