The Bauchi State PDP has formally ended talks with the APC after efforts to reach an agreement on the conditions for a possible political realignment failed.
The State’s PDP Chairman, Sama’ila Burga, disclosed this on Saturday at a press briefing held at the PDP Secretariat in the state.
He claimed that despite meetings between Governor Mohammed and party reps, as well as conversations with the Vice President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and three past governors, the APC did not fulfil the party’s demands.
He said, “We wish to clarify that the initiative for these discussions came from the APC. His Excellency graciously responded out of respect for the eminent personalities involved and in keeping with his commitment to dialogue and inclusiveness. The Governor, the PDP, and the people of Bauchi State participated in the engagements in good faith.”
Proposed power-sharing arrangement.
While responding to questions on whether the 60-40 formula was part of the unmet conditions, Burga further confirmed that the APC rejected the proposal.
“The issue of 60-40 sharing formulas does not emanate only from Bauchi state. Everywhere in the country where there was defection, this sharing formula was adopted; some were even 70 – 30.
Because it would be wrong for a governor coming with a government, from councillors to himself, without having any control of the party, as such, this was the standard, but it was rejected.”
The chairman also stated that it was evident that the APC leadership did not agree with the realignment requirements. Consequently, the parties have officially halted the negotiations.
Additionally, he said the Bauchi State PDP is considering all political options—including those beyond the APC—in consultation with Governor Mohammed and key stakeholders to determine the best path for the state’s citizens.
