Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, on Sunday, dismissed speculation that he would lead five other governors in defecting to the opposition coalition party, the African Democratic Congress.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Dauda Iliya, Governor Zulum noted that the circulating claims were false and aimed at creating political confusion. The governor said the reports, which alleged his planned departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC), were part of a deliberate misinformation campaign.
“We have become aware of a fictitious and mischievous social media report circulating in certain quarters, alleging plans by me to decamp from the All Progressives Congress to the African Democratic Congress, alongside five other governors,” the statement quoted Zulum as saying.
The statement further noted that those behind the rumour had no credible information or contribution to the progress of the state or the country. According to Zulum, their goal is to cause division and distract the government from its duties.
“This is entirely false and exists only in the imagination of its sponsors. They are detractors who have made no meaningful contribution to the progress of Borno State or Nigeria. It is a classic example of cheap, politically motivated speculation designed solely to distract us and create unnecessary political tension,” the statement added.
Governor Zulum restated his dedication to the ruling party and to the ongoing development efforts in Borno State. He made it clear that he is not interested in political games but focused on the wellbeing of his people.
“My loyalty to the APC remains firm, and my dedication is solely to the welfare and progress of Borno State. I urge the good people of Borno and the general public to disregard this fabrication. We have no time for cheap politics; our hands are full of the noble task of rebuilding and developing our dear state,” he said.
He also addressed the need for responsible journalism and urged the media to confirm facts before sharing unverified reports.
“I call on media outlets and the public to verify information from credible official sources and to ignore the desperate fabrications of those seeking relevance through disinformation. We remain resolute in our commitment to serving Borno State under the banner of our great party, the APC,” the statement concluded.
