Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, has openly invited Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, to return to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Mohammed, who doubles as Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, stated that the opposition must unite to rescue Nigeria from the current administration’s failings.

The governor made the appeal during Obi’s visit to the Bauchi Government House, on Friday.

Bala Mohammed commended the former Anambra State governor for what he described as a “new brand of politics” centered on constructive engagement, people-focused governance and oversight.

“Your Excellency, my brother, we are really delighted by the new lease of life you bring to Nigerian politics,” the governor said in the presence of journalists, stakeholders, and members of Obi’s Obidient Movement.

Commending Obi’s legacy in healthcare and education, Mohammed acknowledged his past performance as a governor and the clarity of his vision for Nigeria.

“You have spoken on two critical areas — health and education. We know your passion and what you did in Anambra. This is the kind of insight and roadmap we need for Nigeria,” the Bauchi governor said.

Mohammed stressed that leadership must go beyond seasonal politics and lip service, insisting that Nigerian politicians must demonstrate knowledge, empathy and planning.

“Politics is not about sharing rice during Sallah or Christmas. It is about understanding where the shoe pinches and acting accordingly,” he added.

Governor Mohammed further stressed the need for the opposition to come together, warning that disunity only serves the interests of the ruling party.

“Nigerian politics cannot be done with ego, differences, or personal interests. The opposition — PDP, ADC, SDP, LP — must come together. We must harmonize our interests in the interest of the people of Nigeria,” he declared.

According to him, the current All Progressive Congress-led administration is failing to address the country’s pressing economic and social problems.

“There is no budget, no plan — everything is about politics. We must come together to confront this Goliath and take Nigeria to the promised land with strategy and compassion.

“I told you last night, and I’m saying it again publicly — we want you to come back to PDP. That’s where you belong. Don’t go anywhere else,” Mohammed added.

The PDP Governors Forum chairman concluded by assuring Obi of his support and calling for a collaborative effort to present a united front that can challenge the ruling party and provide a better future for Nigerians.

Responding, Obi reiterated the call for collaboration and a shift in the nation’s political culture.

“Your Excellency, let me continue to thank you for your warm reception and cordial relationship. I came to Bauchi to visit two schools of nursing, but beyond that, I came to meet my brother so we can talk about the problems of the people and how to solve them together,” Obi said.

“To all of us in the opposition, it’s important that we work together. It’s no longer about us — it’s about our country. Our politics must change. It must be the politics of development, competence, capacity, and compassion,” he added.

Obi had earlier visited two institutions in the State where he donated N15 million — N10 million to Malkiya College of Nursing Sciences and N5 million to Intisharu Taufizul Quranic Islamic School in Yelwa.

Speaking at the Malkiya College of Nursing, Obi highlighted the important role nurses play in healthcare. He said nurses are at the heart of the health system and are even more important than doctors in some cases.

He revealed that he supports 60 to 70 nursing schools across Nigeria annually, adding, “This is not about politics — this is about societal progress.”

At the Intisharu Taufizul Quranic Islamic School, Obi stressed the importance of merging Islamic education with conventional subjects.

“Our children need both Islamic teachings and skills like English and Maths to succeed,” he noted.

In a separate engagement, Obi also addressed a forum of Students’ Union Government (SUG) Presidents on the theme ‘Youth and Leadership Opportunity’, where he reaffirmed his pledge to serve only one four-year term if elected president, describing the promise as “sacrosanct”.

“Longevity in office is not a mark of success; rather, it is purposeful, accountable service — however brief — that defines true statesmanship,” he told the students.