Bala Mohammed urges Obi to return to PDP, calls for united opposition

Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors Forum, Senator Bala Mohammed, has made a public appeal to Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, to return to the PDP and help build a united front against what he described as the failings of the current administration.

Governor Mohammed made the appeal on Friday during Obi’s courtesy visit to the Bauchi Government House. The visit was part of Obi’s broader outreach to educational institutions in the state.

In an atmosphere filled with mutual respect and political reflection, Mohammed praised Obi for introducing what he called “a new brand of politics” defined by substance, public engagement, and commitment to national development.

“Your Excellency, my brother, we are really delighted by the new lease of life you bring to Nigerian politics,” Governor Mohammed said in the presence of journalists, political stakeholders, and members of the Obidient Movement who accompanied Obi.

Commending Obi’s record in governance, particularly in healthcare and education during his time as Governor of Anambra State, Mohammed said, “You have spoken on two critical areas — health and education. We know your passion and what you did in Anambra. This is the kind of insight and roadmap we need for Nigeria.”

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He continued with a strong critique of transactional politics, stressing that leadership must be rooted in vision, planning, and empathy.

“Politics is not about sharing rice during Sallah or Christmas. It is about understanding where the shoe pinches and acting accordingly,” he said, adding that political leaders must demonstrate a grasp of the issues affecting ordinary Nigerians.

Governor Mohammed then made a passionate case for opposition unity ahead of future elections, urging all major opposition parties to collaborate.

“Nigerian politics cannot be done with ego, differences, or personal interests. The opposition — PDP, ADC, SDP, LP — must come together. We must harmonize our interests in the interest of the people of Nigeria,” he declared.

He also criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal government for lacking direction and a clear economic strategy.

“There is no budget, no plan — everything is about politics. We must come together to confront this Goliath and take Nigeria to the promised land with strategy and compassion,” Mohammed said.

The governor then extended a direct invitation to Obi, saying: “I told you last night, and I’m saying it again publicly — we want you to come back to PDP. That’s where you belong. Don’t go anywhere else.”

He concluded by assuring Obi of his support and calling for a strategic alliance to present a credible, people-focused alternative to Nigerians.

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In his response, Peter Obi acknowledged Mohammed’s hospitality and expressed agreement on the need for unity and a redefined political culture.

“Your Excellency, let me thank you for your warm reception and cordial relationship. I came to Bauchi to visit two schools of nursing, but beyond that, I came to meet my brother so we can talk about the problems of the people and how to solve them together,” Obi said.

“To all of us in the opposition, it’s important that we work together. It’s no longer about us — it’s about our country. Our politics must change. It must be the politics of development, competence, capacity, and compassion,” he added.

In engagement during his Bauchi visit, Obi addressed a forum of Students’ Union Government (SUG) Presidents on the theme ‘Youth and Leadership Opportunity’, where he reiterated his pledge to serve a single four-year presidential term if elected — a promise he called “sacrosanct.”

“Longevity in office is not a mark of success; rather, it is purposeful, accountable service — however brief — that defines true statesmanship,” Obi told the students.

The visit and subsequent political exchange between the two influential leaders have triggered discussions about the future of opposition politics in Nigeria and the potential for new alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.