Why PDP should reward Gov Bala Mohammed with vice-presidential slot in 2027, By Nasiru Hanga

As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stands at a critical crossroads. After years of internal crises, factional battles, and dwindling influence, the party is gradually regaining its footing.

One man who has played a central role in this rebirth is the Governor of Bauchi State and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed.

Governor Bala Mohammed has not only proven himself as a competent leader in Bauchi but also emerged as a unifying force within our party at the national level. At a time when disillusionment and rancor threatened to rip PDP apart, his calm but firm leadership at the Governors’ Forum helped stabilize the ship.

Governor Mohammed built consensus where there was discord, rallied governors to speak with one voice, and restored confidence in the PDP as a viable alternative for Nigerians.

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The importance of this achievement cannot be overstated. In Nigeria’s multiparty democracy, no political party can thrive without internal harmony. Bala Mohammed’s interventions gave PDP a fresh lease of life, convincing millions of our supporters across the country that the party still has the resilience and capacity to govern. It is therefore only logical that such loyalty, sacrifice, and leadership be rewarded.

Beyond party politics, Bala Mohammed’s record as governor speaks volumes. Under his stewardship, Bauchi has witnessed infrastructural renewal, improved healthcare delivery, agricultural support schemes, and a renewed commitment to education.

His governance style reflects pragmatism, inclusiveness, and a keen understanding of Nigeria’s diversity qualities that are indispensable in national leadership.

A shining example of his inclusive leadership is his accommodation of the Bauchi Christian community, both in government and in daily governance.

He has ensured their active participation in his cabinet, sponsored Christian pilgrims to Jerusalem, and hosted Christmas celebrations at the Government House acts that demonstrate his genuine commitment to unity and religious harmony.

He sees Christians in Bauchi as part of his family, and this rare leadership quality is what Nigeria needs at the national level.

Equally remarkable is his courage in addressing issues previous administrations avoided.

A case in point is his bold move to bring a permanent solution to the Tafawa Balewa Local Government crisis, a long-standing challenge that others chose to sidestep.

He has also tackled the lingering Bauchi water problem, effectively utilizing World Bank funds that had been left idle for years a testament to his foresight and managerial discipline.

Politically, Bala Mohammed’s stabilizing influence goes beyond Bauchi State. His strategic leadership kept the PDP safe from political undertakers who predicted its demise during the rise of the ADC.

Many who defected during the unveiling of ADC have since returned to the PDP a clear indication of his tactical acumen and political resilience. This is what true political calculation looks like.

He continues to play a key role in shaping the PDP’s national strategy, working to ensure that the party presents its best possible presidential candidate be it Peter Obi, Goodluck Jonathan, or other credible figures from the South showing that he prioritizes Nigeria’s unity and the party’s strength over personal ambition.

His decision to support zoning and sacrifice his own presidential aspiration for the sake of national balance underscores his patriotism.

Governor Bala Mohammed is also known for his confidence, eloquence, and fearlessness traits that earned him the traditional titles Kauran Bauchi and later of Daular Usmaniya.

He is the brain behind the formation of the Ministers’ Forum, where he supported the emergence of Kabiru Turaki (SAN) as a national leader. The forum continues to thrive as a space for policy dialogue and coordination among former ministers.

Let us also not forget his contributions to the historic Doctrine of Necessity, which helped bring stability to Nigeria during one of its most uncertain political moments.

His strong sense of nationalism is evident in the inclusivity of his projects whenever he commissions projects in Bauchi, he ensures that people from all parts of Nigeria are invited, fostering a spirit of unity.

Where there were no voices, Bala Mohammed’s voice always rings out in support of the people whether in debates over the tax bill or other national issues that affect ordinary Nigerians.

Even more telling of his character is his enduring loyalty to former President Goodluck Jonathan. Despite the change of power, Bala Mohammed has never spoken ill of his former boss a rare quality in today’s political landscape where opportunism often trumps loyalty.

The PDP has made mistakes in the past by sidelining loyal party men in favor of temporary expediencies. 2027 presents an opportunity to correct this. If the party is truly serious about reclaiming power and offering Nigerians a credible alternative, it must entrust critical positions to men of character, loyalty, and capacity.

Governor Bala Mohammed is such a man. His role in stabilizing the PDP after years of turmoil deserves recognition. Making him the Vice-Presidential candidate in 2027 would not just be a reward it would be a strategic masterstroke for a party that must blend experience with political stability to win back the trust of Nigerians.

The PDP must rise above sentiment and short-term politicking. It must be bold enough to recognize merit and loyalty. Bala Mohammed has earned it.

Nasiru Hanga writes from Kano State.