The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jigawa State has dismissed claims that former Minister of Defence and ex-governor of Jigawa State, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, is planning to defect to the opposition African Democratic Congress.
The rebuttal came from the APC Jigawa Integrity Group, which described the reports circulating on social and conventional media as false, misleading and deliberately designed to sow discord within the ruling party.
Addressing journalists in Dutse on Tuesday, the leader of the group, Auwal Shuaibu Gumel, said the allegation was the handiwork of political detractors and enemies of Jigawa State.
“This misinformation is clearly the work of Badaru’s detractors and enemies of Jigawa State, who are determined to disrupt the strong bond between him and Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which remains solid and unshakeable,” Gumel said.
He insisted that the former governor’s loyalty to the All Progressives Congress and President Tinubu was unwavering, stressing that no amount of speculation could weaken it.
“This so-called move to the ADC is nothing but a figment of imagination by desperate mischief-makers. His Excellency Badaru’s loyalty to the APC and President Tinubu is ironclad. Our party structure in Jigawa remains united and firmly rooted,” he added.
Gumel further dismissed the defection rumour with a metaphor, questioning the logic behind it.
“How can someone who was allowed to build, furnish and design a beautiful house abandon it to move into a dilapidated one? Never. Those spreading this imaginary narrative are clearly afraid of Badaru’s political influence,” he said.
He explained that although the former defence minister has reduced public appearances to prioritise his health, he remains actively involved in party affairs and maintains strong ties with APC supporters across the state.
According to Gumel, Badaru continues to play a behind-the-scenes role in mobilising grassroots support for the APC, particularly in support of President Tinubu’s re-election bid.
“Muhammad Badaru Abubakar remains a key supporter of President Tinubu. Even while taking a break, he is working quietly to strengthen the APC and ensure electoral victories in Jigawa and beyond,” he stated.
Ahmad Sorondinki
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