Bauchi gov refutes Jonathan VP rumours, stick to Senate bid

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has dismissed widespread reports suggesting he is being considered for a vice-presidential slot alongside former President Goodluck Jonathan in a proposed 2027 political arrangement linked to a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party.

The clarification follows growing political speculation on social media platforms and within political circles that Jonathan had been adopted as a presidential candidate by a PDP faction led by Kabiru Turaki, with suggestions that Mohammed could serve as his running mate. The rumours intensified after claims that discussions were ongoing to build a broader opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Jonathan was reportedly declared the faction’s presidential flag bearer during a special national convention in Abuja over the weekend. Although he did not attend the event physically, his certificate of return was received on his behalf by a federal lawmaker from Bayelsa State, Fred Agbedi. The development has continued to generate debate over internal party legitimacy and factional authority.

Further speculation emerged after a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, Nuhu Sada, posted on social media that Mohammed was being positioned as a possible vice-presidential candidate in the emerging alliance. The claim quickly spread across political commentary platforms, prompting a formal response from the governor.

In a statement shared via his verified social media account on Sunday, Mohammed categorically denied any involvement in such negotiations or political arrangements. He described the reports as inaccurate and misleading.

He clarified that his political ambition remains focused on representing Bauchi South Senatorial District under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), adding that he is not engaged in any vice-presidential discussions.

Mohammed stated: “Thank you for your interest in my political aspirations. However, for the sake of clarity, my focus remains firmly on contesting for the Bauchi South Senatorial District seat under the platform of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).”

He further urged the public and political commentators to disregard any contrary reports, stressing that they do not reflect his current political direction or engagements.

The governor’s denial comes amid intensifying political alignments and coalition talks across Nigeria’s opposition landscape as parties position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.