In a recent interview with Daily Trust, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State addressed the ongoing political tensions involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike. Mohammed characterized Atiku as a leader who has shown remarkable maturity amidst the crisis, noting his silence on the matter since it began.
When asked about the possibility of Atiku working behind the scenes, Mohammed acknowledged that such political maneuvering is common. “What I say publicly is only about 10% of what I’m doing behind the scenes,” he explained, emphasizing that politics often involves subtle negotiations and strategies.
Reflecting on his relationship with Wike, Mohammed expressed initial sympathy for him, citing Wike's disappointment during the PDP primaries when he supported other candidates. “If he had told me he was running, I wouldn’t have run,” Mohammed said, highlighting the friendship and collaboration they shared. However, he clarified that he chose not to withdraw his candidacy for Wike, stating, “I’m a nationalist. I don’t represent just the North or the South—I represent the entire country.”
Mohammed recounted an instance where former PDP Chairman Iyorchia Ayu approached him to withdraw in favor of Atiku, a request he declined. He asserted, “If I were to step aside, it wouldn’t be for Atiku,” underscoring his commitment to his own candidacy.
The governor also reflected on the dynamics of the party following the primaries, noting that Wike was recommended for the vice-presidential candidate position but was not selected by Atiku, which he described as a significant disappointment. “We expected him to make a significant contribution to the party, but it didn’t happen, which led to the formation of the G5,” he said, referring to the group of dissenting governors.
Despite the tensions, Mohammed acknowledged Atiku's statesmanlike behavior in not imposing himself and expressed respect for him. He encouraged Wike to maintain his political dignity, stating, “Politics is about live and let live. It’s an opportunity for everyone, and we should allow space for others to rise