Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed said he’ll drop his presidential bid if former President Goodluck Jonathan runs in 2027.

Mohammed, governor of the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), made this statement on Thursday at the Government House in Bauchi when a non-governmental organization (NGO) urged him to consider running for the presidency.

Mohammed took the opportunity to express his profound admiration for Jonathan’s leadership qualities and experience, emphasizing that he believed Jonathan would be the best candidate for the job.

He said, “Regarding your request for me to throw my hat in the ring, I’m still mulling it over as the opposition leader.”

“I know there are some great leaders within the PDP, especially my boss, Goodluck Jonathan.

“I’ve always said that as long as Jonathan is around, I won’t be running for leadership of this country unless he decides not to run.

“If we can get him to throw his hat in the ring, I’ll be first in line to support him. He’s still holding back a bit out of modesty. I hope you meet him and encourage him to run.

The governor credited Jonathan with many of his past achievements, including his inclusive leadership style, initiatives for unemployed youths, and efforts to address the Almajiri system. Mohammed said, “He’ll do a better job because he has the experience.”

Mohammed also explained that his criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s administration were meant to help steer the country in the right direction. He added that he feels it’s his responsibility as a leader to speak up.