Former Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has dismissed reports linking him to a planned defection from the All Progressives Congress to the African Democratic Congress, describing the claims as false and speculative.
The reports emerged amid lingering tensions within the APC in Jigawa State, particularly between Badaru and his successor, Governor Umar Namadi.
Party sources have attributed the speculation to internal disagreements, with claims that some of Badaru’s loyalists feel sidelined in the current administration and in party affairs across the state.
The internal strain has reportedly fuelled broader rumours of possible defections by aggrieved party members seeking alternative political platforms.
However, Badaru moved quickly to shut down the reports, signalling a desire to reaffirm his commitment to the APC and possibly ease tensions within the party in Jigawa.
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In a statement personally signed by him and released to journalists through his media aide, Mati Ali, on Tuesday, January 6, the former minister firmly rejected the defection claims.
“I categorically state that the report is entirely false, unfounded, and a product of political mischief,” Badaru said.
He stressed that his loyalty to the APC, which he helped to establish, remains firm.
“My loyalty to the party remains absolute and unwavering,” he said.
Badaru also called on party members and the general public to ignore the reports, insisting that he has no plans to leave the ruling party.
“I remain a dedicated member of the party and have no intention whatsoever of leaving the APC,” he said.