Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, on Thursday declared that he is now operating as a “freelance politician” with no firm allegiance to any political party.
Mohammed made the statement while hosting a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, alongside stakeholders from the South-East in Bauchi.
Speaking during the meeting, the governor explained that the engagement focused on national unity and collaboration rather than partisan considerations. He noted that the current political landscape has created room for broader consultations among opposition figures.
“Neither PDP nor ADC is standing alone. I am a freelance politician now, and my party is also in limbo. We are looking up to the judiciary,” Mohammed said.
He added that the discussions were part of ongoing political engagements aimed at a possible realignment ahead of future elections.
“Certainly, we are all in the opposition, and that is why I say this is a political discussion. We will not disclose everything we have discussed in terms of the ‘I’s and ‘t’s we have crossed,” he said.
Mohammed stressed the importance of a viable political platform, suggesting that the evolving situation could ultimately strengthen opposition forces.
“We cannot operate without a platform. At the end of the day, the current political situation may even help unify us and strengthen our chances of winning elections,” he added.
Describing Obi’s visit as symbolic, the governor said it underscored efforts to foster national cohesion and bridge regional divides.
“He is talking about unifying the country, building bridges, and creating a new tomorrow for Nigeria. This is what we stand for as a state and as a people. We feel highly honoured by this visit,” Mohammed said.
Earlier, Obi explained that his visit was part of a broader effort to promote unity and collaboration across the country.
“My purpose is to solicit support and cooperation among stakeholders, particularly from Bauchi State, in our quest to unite this country,” Obi said.
He dismissed speculation about possible defections, emphasising that the engagement was not about party politics.
“We are not inviting each other into political parties; we are inviting ourselves to build a better Nigeria,” he added.
The meeting was attended by several South-East stakeholders, including former Imo State Governor, Achike Udenwa, as well as Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Victor Umeh.
The development comes amid a wave of political consultations by Mohammed, who in recent months has hosted stakeholders across party lines, including leaders of the African Democratic Congress and the All Progressives Congress, as alignments intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
