From: Daure David
In response to the recent disparaging remarks made by Governor Nyesom Wike, it is necessary to clarify the misleading narrative that has been put forth in an attempt to tarnish the reputation of Governor Bala Mohammed. Wike's outburst, which has been dismissed by some as a mere bid for public attention, is not only baseless but deeply undermines the integrity of both Governor Mohammed and the larger political discourse.
First, let us address the core of Wike’s accusation—that Governor Bala Mohammed allegedly used him and the G5 to settle scores with Atiku Abubakar. Such claims, whether made under the influence of alcohol or not, are without merit. It is an established fact that political alliances are formed for various reasons, and the dynamics within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) leading up to the 2023 elections were complex. Wike himself, at various points, sought strategic support from different quarters to advance his own political interests, just as any shrewd politician would do.
Governor Bala Mohammed, on the other hand, is a respected leader with a track record of service, integrity, and dedication to his people. He has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the development of Bauchi State and to the unity of the PDP. The notion that Governor Mohammed would deliberately manipulate his colleagues for personal gain is an insult to his decades of political experience and his leadership. His position has always been one of fostering collaboration, not deceit.
It is important to note that political leaders, especially in an environment as dynamic as Nigeria’s, often navigate complex relationships and take difficult decisions to secure the best outcomes for their constituencies. Governor Bala Mohammed’s relationship with Atiku Abubakar is rooted in years of mutual respect and shared political objectives, not in petty vendettas or behind-the-scenes maneuvering, as Wike has suggested.
For those who are quick to dismiss Wike's outburst as mere "cheap beer parlour talk" or "noise making," the true motive behind these statements should not be lost. This is not a time for reckless and unfounded allegations aimed at drawing attention. Wike’s attempts to paint himself as the arbiter of political disputes between Governor Bala Mohammed and Atiku Abubakar are laughable, especially given his own history of political contradictions and betrayals within the PDP and River's State orchestrated by Wike.
Wike, at this point, has shown himself to be a serial betrayer whose credibility is, at best, questionable, he is just the definition of double standard and hypocrisy. His penchant for stirring controversies while attempting to absolve himself of his own political missteps speaks volumes about the type of leadership he embodies.
To suggest that Governor Bala Mohammed has been using Wike and the G5 to settle scores is both inaccurate and disrespectful because Governor Bala Mohammed has been referred to as G1 of the PDP at the time of Crisis because of his ability to speak and stand by it. The G5, like any political coalition, was formed based on shared concerns about the direction of the PDP and the need for a stronger, united opposition which was used by Wike to undermine PDP and the victory of PDP at the 2023 Presidential Election. Governor Mohammed was part of that collective effort not to undermine any individual, but to champion a cause he believes in—the unity and progress of the PDP.
Governor Bala Mohammed is a man of principle who has consistently fought for the best interests of PDP, his state and the nation. His leadership transcends petty squabbles and baseless allegations. To attack his character, as Wike has done, is a deliberate attempt to detract from the real issues facing Nigerian politics today.
However, Wike’s statements are nothing more than the latest in a series of self-serving attacks designed to distract from his own political inadequacies. It is crucial that we focus on the real issues that matter—the growth and development of our nation—and not be sidetracked by personal vendettas or sensationalism. Governor Bala Mohammed has earned his place as a respected leader, and any attempt to discredit him will only serve to diminish the credibility of those who make such unfounded allegations.
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