January 28, (THEWILL) – Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has lashed out at Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, accusing him of ingratitude and betrayal, particularly towards the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Dogara’s remarks come amid an ongoing feud between Mohammed and Wike, which escalated after the Bauchi governor described Wike as a “transactional politician who bites the hand that feeds him” during a media interaction last week.
Responding in a statement he personally signed on Tuesday, Dogara alleged that it was Wike who sponsored Mohammed’s rise to power, playing a pivotal role in securing his governorship ticket under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2018.
“Governor Bala Mohammed’s recent outbursts against His Excellency Nyesom Wike, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, though not entirely surprising, have expanded the boundaries of ingratitude and treachery,” Dogara said.
Recounting events leading to Mohammed’s emergence as the PDP’s governorship candidate in Bauchi, Dogara detailed how Wike provided financial and logistical support without imposing any conditions.
According to him, Wike’s interventions were instrumental during the PDP primaries and subsequent campaigns, including offering a private jet and other resources to aid Mohammed’s election bid.
Dogara alleged that Wike even facilitated the appointment of the panel chairman for the primaries, Chief Dan Orbih, and personally ensured Mohammed’s success despite initial reservations due to a lack of financial capacity.
“When it became clear that Bala Mohammed had no funds to run his campaigns, we turned to Wike for help. Wike, without hesitation, bore all expenses for the primary election and campaign logistics. He never asked for anything in return,” Dogara revealed.
The former Speaker also recounted a tense meeting at the Rivers State Government House where Wike confronted Mohammed over past grievances, including alleged mistreatment during their time as ministers under former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
Despite the strained history, Wike forgave Mohammed and continued to support him, Dogara added.
“It is shocking that someone who benefited immensely from Wike’s generosity now seeks to malign him. Governor Bala Mohammed must be reminded that betraying those who stood by him during his desperate moments is not only dishonorable but also a reflection of poor character,” Dogara stated.
Dogara further accused Mohammed of having a history of betrayal, citing instances where he allegedly turned against his godfather, Alhaji Bello Kirfi, and other political allies.
“Governor Bala Mohammed is fast gaining a reputation for consistently elevating himself by putting others down. He seems to have forgotten that true leadership lies in gratitude, integrity, and respect for those who have supported you,” he concluded.
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