A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party in Bauchi State backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has denied reports that it has defected to the Allied Peoples Movement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The faction described the reports as false and threatened legal action against individuals allegedly using the names of its leaders without authorization.
The development comes amid heightened political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly in Bauchi, where the PDP has faced competing camps and renewed efforts to consolidate political structures. Reports of a possible move to the APM had sparked speculation about the future of the Wike-aligned group.
The faction reportedly maintained that it remained committed to its political position and had not taken any decision to abandon the PDP for the APM.
It also warned that individuals allegedly spreading the defection claim or presenting themselves as representatives of the group without authorization could face legal action.
The denial is significant because the APM has become a major platform in the unfolding 2027 political realignment. Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed defected from the PDP to the APM earlier in 2026, further intensifying the political contest within the state.
The latest development therefore adds another layer to the political rivalry surrounding the PDP in Bauchi, where different factions are positioning themselves ahead of the next election cycle.
The Wike-aligned group’s rejection of the reported defection also signals that the faction does not want its political activities or future plans to be determined by unverified announcements.
Meanwhile, the APM has been expanding its political activities ahead of 2027. The party has already begun preparations for the next general election, with its growing profile adding to the competition among opposition and emerging political platforms.
For the PDP faction in Bauchi, the immediate priority appears to be putting an end to speculation over its political allegiance and protecting its organisational identity as preparations for 2027 intensify.
The controversy also highlights the fluid nature of Nigeria’s political landscape, where defections, alliances and rival factions are increasingly shaping the build-up to the 2027 elections.
