Former Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has dismissed reports suggesting he plans to defect to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the claims as false and baseless.
PUNCH Online gathered that the speculation may have arisen from the lingering political rift between Badaru and his successor, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Party sources say tensions have persisted, with allegations that supporters of the former governor feel sidelined in both government and party affairs in the state.
The internal disagreements within the Jigawa APC have reportedly fueled rumours of possible defections, as some members are said to be disillusioned and exploring alternative political platforms.
However, Badaru has firmly denied the reports, signalling his determination to reaffirm his loyalty to the APC and possibly encourage reconciliation within the party.
In a statement personally signed and released through his media aide, Mati Ali, on Tuesday, Badaru described the defection claims as “entirely false, unfounded, and a product of political mischief.”
He stressed that he remains fully committed to the APC, a party he helped to establish.
“My loyalty to the party remains absolute and unwavering,” he said, urging party members and the general public to disregard the rumours.
Badaru added that he has no intention of leaving the APC and remains a devoted member of the ruling party.