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The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jigawa State is currently facing a deepening internal crisis due to a power struggle between loyalists of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, and Governor Umar Namadi Danmodi.
Naija News reports that Jigawa, once known for its stable political environment, now finds itself embroiled in a conflict that could disrupt both the party’s dominance and the state’s governance. Analysts warn that if the division persists, it may pave the way for opposition parties to gain influence in the state.
The rivalry began after Danmodi succeeded Badaru, who had governed the state for eight years. Previously seen as a loyal deputy to Badaru, Danmodi is now engaged in a struggle to consolidate his authority over the party and governance.
According to Daily Trust, many key positions in Danmodi’s administration, such as the deputy governor, commissioners, and advisers, are held by Badaru loyalists. Additionally, most state assembly members are aligned with Badaru, while the speaker is a close associate of Danmodi. This has created a challenging political landscape for the governor, who has taken steps to assert his influence.
A major shift occurred during recent local government elections, where the newly elected chairpersons were reportedly loyal to Danmodi. By securing control at the grassroots level, Danmodi has strengthened his political base, although Badaru’s loyalists continue to wield significant influence in the legislature and executive.
The conflict has extended to the APC’s youth wing. Late last year, a faction led by Ahmad Magaji Bashir urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider Badaru’s appointment as Minister of Defence, accusing him of disloyalty to the party.
“We are deeply disappointed with Badaru’s failure to support the party’s agenda in Jigawa. His actions appear to align more with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) rather than advancing the interests of the APC,” Bashir alleged.
In contrast, the APC Students and Youth Awareness Forum defended Badaru and called for unity, emphasizing the need for collaboration between the governor and the minister to benefit Jigawa’s people.
Governor Denies Rift
Governor Danmodi has downplayed the reported tensions within the party. Upon returning from a vacation, he dismissed allegations of division and reiterated his commitment to unity.
“During my absence, certain things happened that I didn’t like as a person. In the All Progressives Congress (APC), we have one party in Jigawa State, and I am committed to maintaining that unity. As leaders, we must remain focused and not allow ourselves to be distracted,” he said.
He also urged party members to remain patient and united, warning against individuals attempting to create instability.
Divided Party Leadership
Despite Danmodi’s reassurances, the party leadership appears divided. While the APC State Chairman, Aminu Sani Gumel, has expressed support for the governor, the party secretary, Muhammad Dikuma Umar, has highlighted ongoing challenges. Umar admitted there had been efforts to create division but claimed these had been addressed.
“There was an attempt, and we have dealt with that. How can I and the chairman be separate? But when the chairman brings up anything that is against the rules and laws of the party, of course, we won’t allow it,” Umar said.
He criticized individuals with personal agendas for undermining the party and called for fairness and wisdom among party leaders.
Efforts to reach Aminu Sani Gumel for comments on these issues were unsuccessful. However, he has previously urged party members to support Danmodi’s administration, emphasizing continuity with Badaru’s achievements.
