2027: No one can stop me from contesting for presidency – Bauchi governor

• He said his priority right now is to unite members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and make the party formidable and cohesive.

Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, has opened up on his reported interest in vying for the presidency in 2027.

He said people are only linking him to 2027 presidential election because of his decision to vie for the highest office in the land in 2023.

“I haven’t told anyone I want to run for president now. In 2022/2023 I presented myself as a presidential aspirant but didn’t get the nomination. Perhaps that’s why some people still associate me with that ambition.” He told Daily Trust in an interview.

Mohammed said he would formally communicate his intentions and no one can stop him should he decide to throw his hat in the ring for the 2027 presidency, adding that his priority right now is to unite members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and make the party formidable and cohesive.

He said “But what have I done to cause problems aside from navigating within the Governors’ Forum? It’s a forum of equals, much like the Senate or House of Reps-you don’t make decisions alone, but you do take responsibility. My ambition in 2023 should not be confused with my current focus. Right now, my priority is to see the PDP strong and cohesive, capable of producing a presidential candidate who can win Nigerians’ confidence. It doesn’t have to be me-it could be anyone with the vision, energy and national outlook to win.

“Of course, if the time comes and I decide to run, no one will stop me. But for now, I’m focused on my work. Many young people and organisations are encouraging various individuals to run, not just me. So, why focus on me? I haven’t responded to any of them. Even when a group came to my council urging me to run, I told them I couldn’t unless one of my political mentors (former President Goodluck Jonathan) steps aside, just as I said in 2023. I’m not arrogant; I’m willing to work as part of a team.

“The presidency is about consensus. No one should think they’re bigger than others. If you can harmonise our vision and lead with collaboration, you can become president. But when people start thinking they’re superior to governors or others, they’ve missed the mark. I’m not bigger than anyone-every PDP governor, even some outside the party, may be more qualified to be president. If they don’t step up that’s their choice. But if I decide to run, with the support of my people in Bauchi and across the country, I won’t fear anyone.”