Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has sparked fresh political tension after openly accusing the federal government of using state institutions to pressure and intimidate opposition leaders.
Speaking amid growing political realignments ahead of future elections, the governor alleged that agencies of government are being deployed against politicians who refuse to align with the ruling party. His comments have quickly stirred reactions across the political space, with many interpreting them as a sign of deepening divisions.
Claims of Political Pressure
In his remarks, Bala Mohammed pointed fingers at the administration of President Bola Tinubu, alleging that opposition figures are being unfairly targeted through institutions meant to uphold justice.
“The government believes it can use the courts and agencies like the EFCC to go after those who are not in their party. If this continues, we will not keep quiet. We will resist it,” he said.
He stressed that he would not be forced into political alignment, insisting that his stance is based on principle rather than pressure.
“I will not allow anyone to criminalise me because I am not in their party. I will not join them,” he added.
Rising Political Tension
The governor’s remarks come at a time when opposition parties have repeatedly raised concerns about alleged coercion and forced defections. Analysts say such statements reflect a broader anxiety within Nigeria’s political landscape as alignments begin to shift ahead of the next election cycle.
While the federal government has not officially responded to the claims, the development is likely to intensify debates around political freedom, institutional neutrality, and the state of democracy in the country.
BREAKING:
Bauchi State Governor is blowing hot against Tinubu.
Governor Bala Muhammad blasts Tinubu’s led APC govt for using institutions like EFCC to harass and coerce opposition politicians to defect to APC.
“I will not join APC”
He vowed not to succumb to their pressure.… pic.twitter.com/WER0TmWf8F
— Benkingsley Nwashara (@Benking443) April 3, 2026
