The Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, has described himself as a “freelance politician”, in a remark that underscores growing uncertainty within Nigeria’s opposition as political actors explore new alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
Mohammed made the comment on Thursday while hosting Peter Obi, a leading figure in the African Democratic Congress, alongside stakeholders from the south-east in Bauchi.
Framing the meeting as a non-partisan engagement, the governor said discussions focused on national unity and cooperation rather than party interests, suggesting that both the Peoples Democratic Party and ADC were navigating internal uncertainties.
“Neither PDP nor ADC is standing alone. I am a freelance politician now, and his party is also in limbo. We are looking up to the judiciary,” he said, hinting at unresolved legal and political questions shaping the opposition landscape.
Mohammed added that talks among political actors were ongoing, centred on possible realignment and the search for a viable platform capable of challenging the ruling party.
“We cannot operate without a platform. At the end of the day, the current political situation may even help unify us and strengthen our chances of winning elections,” he said.
Describing Obi’s visit as symbolic, the governor said it reflected efforts to bridge regional divides and build a broader coalition.
“He is talking about unifying the country, building bridges, and creating a new tomorrow for Nigeria,” Mohammed said.
Obi, speaking earlier, echoed the theme of national cohesion, insisting that the engagement was not about party defections but about collaboration across political lines.
“We are not inviting each other into political parties; we are inviting ourselves to build a better Nigeria,” he said, adding that his visit was aimed at securing support from stakeholders in Bauchi and beyond.
The meeting drew prominent figures from the south-east, including former Imo state governor Achike Udenwa, as well as senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Victor Umeh.
Mohammed’s remarks come amid a flurry of cross-party consultations in recent months, as opposition leaders test new alignments in what is shaping up to be an increasingly fluid and unpredictable political landscape ahead of the next general election cycle.
