Former Governor of Bauchi State, Isa Yuguda, has come under criticism from some political stakeholders following reports that he is encouraging his son, Idris Yuguda, to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) and pursue another electoral bid under a different political platform.
Yuguda, who has remained publicly supportive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, was appointed in May 2024 as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Board of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). He was also assigned responsibilities as North-East Coordinator for the Renewed Hope Initiative and Ambassadors programme, a role linked to promoting government policies and grassroots engagement across the region.
His son, Idris, previously contested for a federal constituency seat in Bauchi State on the platform of the APC but was unsuccessful.
However, reports suggesting that the former governor is backing efforts for Idris to defect to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and contest again for the same seat have triggered reactions within political circles.
Some party loyalists and observers have described the reported move as inconsistent with the spirit of party loyalty expected from senior figures who continue to enjoy prominent appointments under the current administration.
According to critics, encouraging a switch to another platform after benefitting politically from the ruling party could send conflicting signals to supporters and weaken cohesion within party structures in Bauchi and the wider North-East.
Others argue that political participation remains a constitutional right and that candidates are free to seek platforms they consider more viable, provided due process is followed.
Political analysts say developments surrounding the reported move may test internal alliances and influence grassroots dynamics ahead of future electoral contests in the state.
As of the time of filing this report, there had been no official public response from Isa Yuguda or his son addressing the reports.
