By: Daure David
A few days after Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed expressed his readiness to collaborate with Peter Obi in the pursuit of a better Nigeria, his political landscape has been thrown into turmoil. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently initiated a high-profile investigation, reportedly inviting the State Accountant General over baseless allegations of a ₦70 billion fraud.
The timing of this sudden action has sparked widespread controversy, with critics suggesting that the investigation is politically motivated. Governor Mohammed’s openness to work with Peter Obi, a leading opposition figure, has reportedly irked members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Many now view the EFCC’s move as a deliberate attempt to undermine the PDP-led administration in Bauchi and intimidate political opponents.
The allegations of the ₦70 billion fraud have raised several questions, particularly concerning the tenure of the Accountant General and the validity of such claims. Observers are now questioning how the supposed amount was allegedly siphoned, especially when compared to Bauchi State’s actual total allocation since 2019. With Governor Mohammed’s administration making visible progress in infrastructural and social development, critics argue that the claims of misappropriation appear unfounded.
In a swift response to the developments, Peter Obi’s political movement, Bauchi State Chapter, under the leadership of Jonathan Simon Taimako JP, condemned the actions as a politically motivated attack. A statement issued by the movement described the EFCC’s investigation as part of a broader political blackmail campaign designed to silence opposition figures. The statement also expressed grave concern over the increasing use of government agencies for political advantage and the suppression of democratic rights.
“This is not just an attack on Governor Bala Mohammed or his Accountant General, but an assault on the very core principles of democracy,” the statement read. “We are witnessing an unprecedented wave of political harassment aimed at destabilizing the democratic process, where state institutions are being weaponized to target those who oppose the ruling party.”
Political analysts have raised alarms over the apparent weaponization of state power, with growing concerns that the political climate in Nigeria is becoming more divisive. The timing of the investigation, coming just after the PDP-led government expressed support for Peter Obi’s vision for the country, is fueling speculation that the APC is determined to suppress any form of opposition.
Governor Bala Mohammed, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has remained silent on the issue, but his supporters have been vocal in defending his administration. They argue that despite the allegations, the Governor has achieved significant progress in Bauchi, visible to the public through key infrastructure projects and social welfare initiatives. According to them, the claims against the state government are part of a broader strategy to tarnish the image of the opposition and divert attention from the achievements of the PDP-led administration.
Further concerns have been raised about the political implications of the investigation. Many fear that this latest development could escalate tensions between the ruling APC and opposition parties, further deepening the rift and destabilizing Nigeria’s already fragile democracy. Some analysts predict that such politically charged actions could have far-reaching consequences for the nation’s future.
The Peter Obi Movement has urged Nigerians to remain united in the face of these challenges, calling for peaceful dialogue and a commitment to democratic principles. The movement’s statement encouraged citizens to stand firm in the defense of their rights, emphasizing the need to resist the growing trend of political persecution and the misuse of state power.
As the situation continues to unfold, all eyes are on Nigeria’s political elite to determine whether they can set aside their differences and find common ground. Should the political climate remain polarized, experts warn that Nigeria could face a period of greater instability and division, potentially compromising the progress made in recent years.
The political crisis in Bauchi is a stark reminder of the growing polarization in Nigerian politics and the dangers of allowing state institutions to be used as tools of political vendetta.
