Dogara reveals how Bala Mohammed sought Wike’s support in 2018 campaign

By Kunle Sanni

Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has narrated how Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, sought financial assistance from then-Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, during his 2018 governorship campaign.

Dogara revealed that after Mohammed emerged as the PDP flag bearer, he lacked the resources to fund his campaign. A committee raised only N28 million, prompting Dogara to reach out to Wike for help.

According to Dogara, Wike provided critical financial support and a private jet for Mohammed’s campaign, without placing any conditions.

He recounted that Mohammed, overwhelmed with gratitude, “knelt down, almost kissing the ground” when receiving Wike’s assistance.

Wike also intervened during the PDP primaries in Bauchi, ensuring Mohammed’s victory against Senator Abdul Ningi. He appointed his ally, Chief Dan Osi Orbih, to oversee the primaries and facilitated Orbih’s travel to Bauchi via a private jet.

Despite Wike’s significant role in Mohammed’s political journey, recent tensions have emerged between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Governor Mohammed, and the PDP Governors’ Forum over party leadership in Rivers State.