On November 5, 2026, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed addressed a gathering at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, where he cautioned one of the Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (APM) senatorial candidates against using abusive language towards President Bola Tinubu. The candidate had suggested that APM's presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, should take over Nigeria and referred to the current administration as "useless". Bala Mohammed swiftly interjected, advising the candidate not to use such language.
Bala Mohammed highlighted APM's commitment to promoting inclusivity and fairness in governance. He stated that if elected, Seyi Makinde would run an inclusive government that guarantees fairness, equity, and balanced representation across Nigeria. The governor emphasized that appointments and opportunities in government would be distributed fairly across the country's different sections, in line with the principle of federal character and merit.
According to Bala Mohammed, over 100,000 positions would be available for appointments in the proposed administration. He assured that the selection process would be based on merit, with no single tribe or section dominating the process. The governor described APM as a movement bringing hope to Nigerians and emphasized that his proposed government would prioritize knowledge, competence, and inclusiveness in leadership recruitment.
Bala Mohammed praised Seyi Makinde's leadership capacity, citing his experience in Oyo State as evidence of his ability to manage diversity and promote national cohesion. He highlighted the importance of a unity government, which would address problems of tribalism, religious intolerance, and political exclusion. The governor expressed confidence that Makinde's proposed Reset Nigeria Agenda would place the country on a sustainable development path.
Bala Mohammed appealed to Seyi Makinde to remember Bauchi State when distributing opportunities and development interventions if elected. He stressed that political support should be rewarded with fairness rather than exclusion. The governor lamented the difficulties experienced by opposition-led states, particularly in accessing federal interventions, and urged Makinde to ensure equitable treatment for Bauchi and other states in the North-East.
The governor praised the consensus arrangement adopted by APM in Bauchi State, which allowed candidates to emerge without rancour or serious disagreements. He emphasized the party's commitment to building a political platform that accommodates different interests while promoting unity and collective responsibility. Bala Mohammed cautioned against reproducing the same political exclusion and impunity that Nigerians had experienced in the past.
Bala Mohammed's comments reflect the APM's efforts to promote a positive and inclusive campaign. The party's approach to politics, which prioritizes fairness, equity, and merit, has been welcomed by many Nigerians. As the country prepares for the 2027 polls, Bala Mohammed's leadership and advocacy for inclusive governance may play a significant role in shaping the national conversation.
Key points
- Bala Mohammed cautions APM candidate against abusing President Bola Tinubu at a campaign rally.
- APM's presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, promises an inclusive government if elected.
- Bala Mohammed emphasizes the importance of fairness, equity, and merit in governance appointments.
Reporting sources
- The Guardian · The Guardian
