Bala Mohammed Refutes Wike’s Claims, Calls for Unity in PDP
By Wisdom Tide
Strong Response to Wike’s Allegations
Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has forcefully countered recent accusations made by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), labeling Wike's claims as false. As the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors' Forum, Mohammed stood firm in defense of the PDP governors, rejecting Wike’s assertion that the governors were acting with arrogance.
The disagreement emerged following Wike’s threat to "cause trouble" in PDP-governed states if the governors meddled in political matters within Rivers State. Wike’s comments followed the backing of Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara by PDP governors in an ongoing political conflict with Wike.
Defending the Integrity of PDP Governors
Addressing the press, Governor Mohammed expressed astonishment at Wike's remarks, stating, "Wike’s statements are simply untrue. PDP governors are not arrogant. We are committed to the progress of our states and the success of our party."
According to Mohammed, the governors’ involvement in the Rivers State issue was intended to promote peace and resolve political conflicts. He clarified, “Our support for Governor Fubara was motivated by the desire to bring stability and unity to our party. There was no intent to antagonize anyone.”
Criticism of Wike’s Approach
Mohammed did not hold back in criticizing Wike’s confrontational stance. He condemned Wike’s threats to intervene in states outside his jurisdiction, stressing, “It is inappropriate for a minister to threaten states over which he has no authority. We are all Nigerians, and we must prioritize collaboration over conflict.”
The Bauchi governor also reminded Wike of his responsibility as a minister, urging him to concentrate on his duties in Abuja. “Wike has a crucial role to play as Minister of the FCT. Rather than engaging in political battles with PDP governors, he should focus on his mandate in the nation’s capital,” Mohammed added.
PDP Governors Stand Firm
In a broader show of solidarity, the PDP Governors' Forum, under Mohammed’s leadership, issued a formal statement condemning Wike’s rhetoric. The statement described Wike’s comments as “unbridled, irresponsible, and wholly unacceptable,” warning that such behavior could jeopardize party unity.
The governors reaffirmed their unwavering support for Governor Fubara’s leadership in Rivers State, making it clear that no individual, no matter how influential, could overturn their collective decision. “We remain resolute in our endorsement of Governor Fubara. No single figure has the power to alter that decision,” the statement emphasized.
Call for Reflection and Reconciliation
In a pointed reminder, Governor Mohammed urged Wike to reflect on the support he had received from the PDP during his tenure as Rivers State governor. “When Wike faced challenges as governor, we all rallied around him. It’s important that he doesn’t forget that now,” he remarked.
Stressing the importance of unity, Mohammed called for an end to public confrontations within the party. “The PDP is greater than any one individual. We must work together to move forward, not tear each other apart,” he asserted.
Broader Reactions to the Dispute
Wike’s remarks have sparked reactions from other PDP members as well. Ibrahim Abdullahi, the party’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, downplayed the seriousness of Wike’s comments, stating that the PDP has weathered larger storms in its 25-year history. “The PDP has faced far more significant challenges. One person cannot dismantle the party,” Abdullahi declared.
In Rivers State, government officials have also voiced concerns over Wike’s behavior. Sydney Gbara, the state’s Commissioner for Environment, questioned the appropriateness of Wike’s threats and called on security agencies to address the issue. “Threatening 13 governors amounts to planning nationwide unrest. This is not the behavior we expect from a leader of Wike’s stature,” Gbara stated.
A Call for Dialogue and Resolution
The escalating dispute has raised alarms about the potential impact on the PDP’s internal cohesion, with some party members concerned that such internal conflicts could weaken the party’s prospects in future elections.
Governor Mohammed concluded his remarks by urging all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue rather than public confrontations. “We must put an end to this public squabbling. Let’s sit down and address our differences like mature leaders. Only through unity can we strengthen our party and prepare for the challenges ahead,” he concluded
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