Bala Mohammed, Governor of Bauchi State, has declared that the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) will not engage in election rigging during the 2027 general elections, while also vowing to resist any attempts to undermine its candidates through electoral malpractice. Speaking at the Bauchi Government House during the official affirmation of APM candidates for elective positions, Mohammed emphasized the party’s commitment to fair and transparent electoral conduct. He stressed that the APM will not solicit or accept any form of cheating to secure victory, nor will it allow its candidates to be cheated out of a win.
Mohammed’s remarks underscore a clear shift in the party’s electoral strategy, as he called for a return to grassroots engagement and community dialogue. “It is a new game entirely. We are going back to the communities to share our qualifications and what we have accomplished,” he stated. This approach reflects a broader campaign to build trust and legitimacy through direct interaction with voters, rather than relying on manipulation or fraud.
The governor also made it clear that the APM respects its political opponents, regardless of their experience or background. “We are not going to think less of our competitors. Even if a child born today is a candidate, I will treat him like an adult,” he said. This statement highlights his belief in fair competition and the importance of treating all candidates with dignity and respect.
Mohammed urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the 2027 elections are conducted with full transparency, credibility, and fairness. He emphasized that the APM is prepared to accept the outcome of the election, whether victory or defeat, as long as the process is open, fair, and equal. “If we win, we will accept it. If we lose, we will accept it, especially when there is openness, fairness, and equality. That is democracy,” he added.
His comments come amid growing concerns across Nigeria about electoral integrity and the need for credible elections. The APM’s stance positions the party as a proponent of democratic values and electoral reform, setting it apart from groups that have been accused of vote manipulation in the past. By publicly rejecting rigging and demanding accountability from INEC, the party is signaling its intent to be a responsible player in Nigeria’s political landscape.
As the 2027 elections approach, Mohammed’s declaration may influence public perception of the APM and encourage greater voter confidence in the party’s commitment to democratic principles. This moment could mark a turning point in the party’s political identity, reinforcing its role as a credible alternative in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.
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