In Jigawa State, Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru’s supporters have allegedly vandalized billboards displaying images of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Governor Umar Namadi, and Jigawa All Progressives Congress (APC) chairman, Aminu Gumel.
The incident, observed in prominent areas of Dutse, has fueled political speculation amid reports of Badaru’s possible defection to the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 elections.
Witnesses reported billboards being slashed, defaced, or completely destroyed, with locals attributing the actions to rising tensions between the Defence Minister and Governor Namadi.
Some of Badaru’s supporters reportedly claimed that the Governor has sidelined them. Bala Sule Babura, a youth loyal to Badaru, expressed frustration over what he described as unmet promises and limited access to government officials.
“The Governor here has refused to follow the instructions of the former Governor. We feel abandoned,” Babura said.
Political analysts suggest that Governor Namadi, who gained widespread support despite Badaru’s alleged resistance, has solidified his position, potentially leaving the Defence Minister marginalized.
According to local resident Baba Mohammad, Badaru’s speculated defection to the PDP could further diminish his influence.
“Badaru aligning with the PDP may signal a total collapse of his political structure in Jigawa,” Mohammad observed, adding that any attempt to destabilize the state could backfire.
Governor Namadi has responded to these grievances by emphasizing that state funds are committed to development, not political appeasement.
Within the APC, some insiders see Badaru’s actions as disruptive, noting that as the party leader in Jigawa, Namadi should prioritize rebuilding efforts following Badaru’s tenure.
As the rumors intensify, Jigawa residents are closely watching these developments, and opposition members are taking note,
