Former Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has vehemently dismissed viral rumors regarding his resignation. He denied claims that he stepped down to protest ongoing military operations against armed groups.
The former minister tendered his resignation on December 1, citing health grounds. He described the circulating narrative as a fabrication aimed at damaging his relationship with the Presidency.
“Engineered Falsehood”
Badaru responded to an online publication making the rounds. The post alleged he resigned because he “cannot stand and watch the US and Tinubu government bombing our brothers in the forest.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Badaru clarified the situation. He stated the quote was fake and did not reflect his views.
“I wish to state categorically… that this publication is entirely false, deliberately mischievous, and did not originate from me,” the statement read.
He insisted that he communicated the official reason for his exit health concerns to President Bola Tinubu. Consequently, he labeled the alternative narrative as an “engineered falsehood.”
Loyalty to the President
Badaru argued that the creators of the rumor had malicious intent. He believes they wanted to smear his reputation and manufacture a political rift.
“The intent behind this fabrication is clear: to tarnish my hard-earned reputation,” he noted. He added that the goal was to sow discord between him and the Commander-in-Chief.
Furthermore, he reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC). He pledged his continued commitment to the administration’s success ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Succession Confirmed
Following Badaru’s departure, President Tinubu moved quickly to fill the vacancy.
He appointed General Christopher Musa (rtd) as the new Minister of Defence. The Senate has since confirmed Musa to lead the ministry.
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