Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has revealed that he will drop his presidential ambition if former President Goodluck Jonathan decides to run for the top seat in 2027.

Mohammed, a governor under the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), made this statement on Thursday at the Government House in Bauchi when a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) urged him to consider running for the presidency.

Mohammed used the occasion to express his admiration for Jonathan’s leadership qualities and experience, saying he would be a better candidate for the job.

He said, “With regard to your call for me to present myself, I am still contemplating my chances as the leader of the opposition.

“I know there are good leaders within the PDP, especially my boss, Goodluck Jonathan.

“I have always said that as long as Jonathan is around, I will not present myself for leadership of this country, unless he decides not to run.

“If we can persuade him to come forward, I will support him with my blood. Out of modesty, he is still not ready. I hope you will meet him and encourage him to run.

The governor praised Jonathan’s past achievements, including his inclusive leadership style, initiatives for unemployed youths, and efforts to address the Almajiri system. “He will do a better job because he has the experience,” Mohammed said.

Mohammed also clarified that his criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s administration are intended to help put the country on the right path, adding that his responsibility as a leader is to speak out.