Thursday, January 30, 2025
HomenewsThe Bala-Wike Saga: A Betrayal of Friendship and PoliticsBy Rt. Hon. Yakubu...

The Bala-Wike Saga: A Betrayal of Friendship and PoliticsBy Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, CFR

Governor Bala Mohammed’s recent criticism of the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency Nyesom Wike, has unveiled a troubling narrative of ingratitude and political treachery. For someone like me, privy to the unfolding events, the need to speak the truth outweighs the comfort of silence. The moral dilemma here is not just about Wike and Bala but about whether we allow injustice to thrive unchecked.

Back in 2018, during the PDP gubernatorial primaries in Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed’s political future hung precariously in the balance. Senator Abdul Ningi, with significant influence over the party structure, seemed poised for victory. At this critical juncture, it was Governor Wike who stepped in to tilt the scales. Wike appointed Chief Dan Osi Orbih, a close ally, as chairman of the primaries panel and ensured that logistics for his deployment to Bauchi were handled efficiently, including providing a private jet for his travel. Remarkably, Wike bore all the expenses and imposed no conditions for his support.

After securing the PDP ticket, Bala Mohammed faced yet another crisis—an empty campaign treasury. A fundraiser at Sheraton Abuja Hotel yielded a net of only ₦28 million, a figure far below expectations. Desperate for resources, we turned to Wike once again. Despite personal grievances with Bala stemming from his tenure as FCT Minister, Wike extended a helping hand. He provided financial assistance and a private jet to facilitate Bala’s campaign.

The betrayal of such goodwill now reveals Bala’s disregard for the adage: “Do not break the calabash from which you once drank water.” His recent attacks on Wike’s character are a stark contrast to the praise he once heaped on him, describing Wike as “courageous, focused, and determined.”

Bala Mohammed’s actions reflect a pattern of moral bankruptcy. His history of alienating allies, including elder statesman Alhaji Bello Kirfi, is well-documented. As a leader, he appears consumed by delusions, incapable of acknowledging the truth even when it stares him in the face.

Between Wike and Bala, the scales of integrity tip heavily in favor of the former. Bala must be reminded that true leadership demands consistency, gratitude, and honor—qualities he has repeatedly failed to exhibit

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