Former Minister of Defence of Nigeria, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has firmly rejected widespread claims suggesting that he is planning to leave the All Progressives Congress, Nigeria’s ruling political party, for the African Democratic Congress.
The former minister described the reports as unfounded and politically motivated, stressing that he remains fully committed to the party he helped establish. According to him, the speculation does not reflect his political stance or intentions.
Okay News reports that the defection rumours emerged amid ongoing internal disagreements within the All Progressives Congress in Jigawa State, a state located in northern Nigeria. Political observers attribute the speculation to tensions between Badaru and his successor, Governor Umar Namadi, the current Governor of Jigawa State.
Sources familiar with developments inside the party revealed that disagreements have been growing over internal party management and governance style. Some party members are said to believe that individuals aligned with Badaru have been sidelined in key political and administrative decisions within the state.
The situation has reportedly led to broader concerns among certain party stakeholders, with some interpreting the internal rift as a possible trigger for defections, particularly as political realignments intensify ahead of future elections.
However, Badaru swiftly addressed the rumours in a personally signed statement released to journalists on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, through his media aide, Mati Ali. In the statement, he categorically dismissed the claims and reaffirmed his allegiance to the ruling party.
“I categorically state that the report is entirely false, unfounded, and a product of political mischief,” Badaru said.
Emphasising his long-standing relationship with the party, the former minister stated that his loyalty remains unchanged.
“My loyalty to the party remains absolute and unwavering,” he said.
Badaru further urged members of the All Progressives Congress and the general public to ignore the speculation, stressing that he has no plans to exit the party under any circumstances.
“I remain a dedicated member of the party and have no intention whatsoever of leaving the APC,” he said.
Political analysts believe the public denial could signal an attempt to de-escalate tensions within the Jigawa State chapter of the party and possibly open the door for reconciliation among aggrieved factions.
