Zoning Decision Satisfactory, My Ambition Is Not Bigger than Nigeria — Governor Bala Mohammed
The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has announced that he is putting his presidential ambition on hold in the interest of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as well as the unity and progress of Nigeria.
Speaking to journalists in Bauchi after the party decided to zone the presidential ticket to the South while retaining the chairmanship position in the North, Governor Mohammed emphasized that his decision was a sacrifice made to uphold party discipline and allow others a fair chance to pursue their aspirations.
“My ambition is not bigger than Nigeria, and certainly not bigger than the party. Even if I don’t become President, I have held many important positions in the past, and I am grateful for those opportunities,” he said.
The governor called on Nigerian politicians to prioritize collective progress over personal interests.
“I want Nigerians to understand that politics is not about individual ambition. It is about self-actualization within the framework of party decisions, party manifestos, and national development,” he explained. “Everything must be rooted in sacrifice rather than self-interest. We must live and let live, respect one another, and remember that power ultimately comes from God.”
Governor Mohammed assured that leaders within the PDP—including governors, members of the National Working Committee (NWC), and the Board of Trustees—remain united in their commitment to making the party the preferred choice for Nigerians, while providing political space for everyone’s dreams.
He also expressed full satisfaction with the zoning decision, noting that he had been actively involved throughout the discussions leading to the resolution.
“I am very satisfied with the outcome. I was part of the process from the strategic planning stages to the final decisions. It was an inclusive approach. Most importantly, we agreed to maintain the current zoning arrangement for party offices and to zone the presidential ticket to the South. This will foster greater unity, understanding, and stability within the party,” he added.
On Monday, the PDP officially zoned its presidential slot to the southern region of Nigeria, while reaffirming that the chairmanship position will remain with a northerner. This decision was made during the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, where Umar Damagum was also confirmed as National Chairman.
Governor Mohammed further extended an invitation to Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, urging him to return to the PDP.
During a courtesy visit by Obi to the government house in Bauchi, the governor said, “We want you to come back to the PDP. Please come back—that is where you belong. Don’t go to where there is disarray.”