The former Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru, has been the center of attention in Jigawa State, with rumors swirling around his potential defection from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). This speculation has intensified despite Badaru's public declarations denying any plans to leave the APC.
Recent public engagements involving Badaru have led to unrest among his supporters, further kindling the rumors of his possible political shift. These rumors were notably ignited by a supportive ally, Zakari Kafin-Hausa, who shared a Facebook video featuring a cleric from Katsina, Yakubu Musa. The cleric criticized President Bola Tinubu’s policies, suggesting a bias towards southern Nigeria over the northern voters who backed him in the previous elections.
Badaru had reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC in his hometown of Babura, just three months following his return from abroad. This affirmation came after he had unexpectedly resigned from his ministerial position in December.
However, his recent interactions have led many to speculate on his true political ambitions. Within the span of a week, Badaru met with Mustapha Lamido, the PDP's gubernatorial candidate from 2023 and the son of seasoned politician Sule Lamido, who is reportedly contemplating a switch to the ADC.
Additionally, Badaru has had discussions with Ubale Shitu, a former senator and prominent member of the ADC, as well as Sule Lamido, a former governor with whom he has had a contentious history since a 2017 incident that resulted in Lamido's arrest.
This contentious past adds complexity to their discussions, as Badaru’s government had prosecuted Lamido on multiple charges, including defamation and criminal intimidation, resulting in Lamido’s brief incarceration.
The former minister's uptick in meetings with opposition figures has sparked animated debate throughout the state. Although he remains officially within the APC and maintains a working relationship with Governor Umar Namadi, this recent behavior suggests a potential realignment of political loyalties as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections.
In January, Badaru publicly refuted claims of his defection, labeling such reports as baseless and politically motivated. He emphasized his unwavering commitment to the APC, which he was instrumental in establishing.
His spokesperson, Mati Ali, stated he had no knowledge of Badaru's meetings with significant opposition leaders. However, Kafin-Hausa confirmed that the former minister hosted multiple opposition leaders at his residence under the pretext of fostering political harmony during the month of Ramadan.
Despite these claims, Badaru's absence from important APC congress events has fueled further speculation of a rift with the party that enabled his rise to political prominence. The latest congress saw attendance from key APC figures, including Governor Namadi and various party aspirants, highlighting Badaru’s notable absence as a cause for concern among party loyalists.
The congress appointed Ahmad Garba as the new state chairperson, whose opening remarks hinted at discontent with party members engaging with opposition groups, aiming to discourage any form of dual loyalty.
Governor Namadi has previously addressed potential divisions within the APC, asserting a mandate that should not be undermined by dissenting factions. He urged unity among party members and reaffirmed his commitment to executing their collective mission.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the relationship between Badaru and Namadi remains cordial, with both men acknowledging the need for stability despite rival factions within their support bases. Badaru has publicly endorsed Namadi's efforts as governor, noting the improved performance relative to his own administration.
The underlying tension within the Jigawa APC can be traced back to the party's governorship selection in May 2022, which left many feeling threatened by Namadi's rise. Critics have argued that political changes under Namadi may have sidelined traditional party loyalists in favor of newer, reform-minded appointees.
Despite ongoing criticism from party members about governance and appointments, the overall political atmosphere in Jigawa has remained relatively stable. Analysts believe that Badaru, known for his strategic approach, is unlikely to abandon the APC, given the established political ties and structures that continue to favor a unified front as the 2027 elections draw near.
Thus, while there is clearly friction within the party, Badaru and Namadi are primarily focused on maintaining their relationship, with Badaru's past administration still benefiting party members in current positions. This landscape suggests that significant challenges to the ruling party's authority may be unlikely in the near term.
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