Bala Mohammed Rejects APC Pressure, Says He Won’t Be Criminalised

Bala Mohammed Rejects APC Pressure, Says He Won’t Be Criminalised

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has strongly rejected alleged political pressure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the federal government of President Bola Tinubu, insisting he will not be intimidated or “criminalised” for refusing to defect to the ruling party.

Speaking at a press conference, Governor Mohammed accused federal agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the courts, of being used as tools to target political opponents. He described the alleged actions as politically motivated harassment aimed at forcing him and other opposition figures to align with the APC.

“The APC-led federal government thinks they can use the court and the EFCC to prosecute Nigerians who are not in their party,” Mohammed said. “If they don’t stop, we are prepared to declare a war. I assure you, we will not keep quiet any longer. I will not allow anybody to criminalise me because I refuse to join their party.”

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The governor reaffirmed his decision not to defect, highlighting that some of his commissioners have already faced pressure and what he calls unjust scrutiny by anti-graft agencies. He warned that continued coercion could provoke stronger public responses from himself and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership.

Bala Mohammed, who chairs the PDP Governors’ Forum, accused the APC-led administration of deploying “gestapo tactics” to weaken opposition voices ahead of the 2027 general elections. He said these actions undermine democratic principles, politicize state institutions, and threaten the independence of officeholders.

Political observers note that his comments underscore rising tension between the federal government and opposition governors, as speculation continues about party realignments and alliances ahead of upcoming elections. Supporters argue that his stance represents a firm defense of political freedom, while critics warn that the rhetoric could further heighten partisan polarization in the country.

Governor Mohammed’s position highlights broader concerns over federal influence on state affairs, the impartiality of anti-corruption agencies, and the use of state institutions in partisan politics, raising urgent questions about Nigeria’s democratic and governance frameworks.

Bala Mohammed Rejects APC Pressure, Says He Won’t Be Criminalised