Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has made it clear that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will not take the same path as the All Progressives Congress (APC) did in the 2023 general election by presenting a Muslim-Muslim ticket.
Speaking in Bauchi, the governor stressed that the opposition party has drawn important lessons from the political storm that followed APC’s decision three years ago. He explained that PDP’s leadership is conscious of Nigeria’s delicate religious and cultural balance, and would not deliberately adopt a formula that could heighten tension or alienate sections of the electorate.
Governor Mohammed noted that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, which demands careful consideration in political choices. “We cannot afford to ignore the sensitivities of our people,” he said. “Equity, inclusion, and unity must guide every step we take.”
Background on APC’s 2023 Ticket
The ruling APC went into the 2023 election with a presidential ticket made up of two Muslims, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kashim Shettima. While the party defended its choice on grounds of competence and political strategy, the decision sparked wide debate across the country. Critics argued that the move neglected Nigeria’s religious diversity, while supporters maintained that performance should matter more than faith.
The controversy dominated national discourse throughout the campaign season and deepened suspicion among religious groups. Many analysts still consider it one of the most divisive political decisions of recent years.
PDP’s Approach Ahead of 2027
Governor Bala Mohammed assured party members and Nigerians that PDP’s consultations ahead of 2027 will be broad and deliberate. He explained that beyond religious balance, the party intends to present a ticket capable of restoring public trust and addressing the country’s pressing economic and security challenges.
“The mistakes of others should be lessons for us,” he said. “Our people need reassurance that every community has a place at the table. That is how we can strengthen unity and foster national stability.”
As political activities intensify towards 2027, the PDP’s insistence on religious and regional inclusiveness is expected to shape conversations about its eventual flagbearers. For many observers, the Bauchi governor’s position is both a critique of APC’s past strategy and a signal of PDP’s attempt to position itself as a party of balance and fairness.
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