Bala Mohammed: I Sacrificed Presidential Ambition For PDP Unity

By Adesina Quadri Ademola

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has disclosed that he stepped down from pursuing his presidential ambition in the interest of unity and stability within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Mohammed, who doubles as Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, said the decision to zone the party’s presidential ticket to the South was a collective agreement reached to preserve harmony and fairness within the party.

Speaking with journalists yesterday, the governor expressed satisfaction with the zoning arrangement, noting that it was borne out of inclusiveness and respect for the PDP’s long-standing rotational principle.

“I’m delighted with the resolution because I’m part of it — from the arrangement, strategy, to the delivery,” Mohammed said. “It is an all-inclusive decision for us to have our NEC in Ibadan, Oyo State, and sustain the existing zoning formula in party offices, while zoning the presidential ticket to the South-South. This is to ensure sanity, understanding and unity.”

He emphasised that politics should transcend personal ambition, stressing that sacrifice remains the foundation of collective progress.

“Politics is not about personal interest. It is about self-actualisation within the framework of party decisions, manifestos and national development. Everything is predicated on sacrifice, not selfish interest,” he declared.

The Bauchi governor also underscored the importance of mutual respect and tolerance among party members, noting that political power ultimately comes from God.

“So we are always available — as governors, the NWC and BoT — to work towards making PDP the darling of Nigerians. Our role is to create the political space for everyone to realise their aspirations,” he added.

His remarks come at a time the PDP is repositioning itself ahead of the 2027 general elections, with zoning once again at the heart of the party’s internal balancing act.