Ex-defence minister denies resigning over alleged US–Nigeria military plans
By Uzair Adam
Former Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, has refuted claims suggesting he left the President Bola Tinubu administration because of alleged cooperation between Nigeria and the Donald Trump–led US government regarding accusations of genocide against Christians in the country.
He dismissed the reports in an electronically signed statement titled, “Rejoinder: Categorical Denial Of Malicious Publication Regarding My Resignation As Minister of Defence.”
According to him, a circulating online publication falsely alleged he stepped down because he “cannot stand and watch the US and Tinubu government bombing our brothers in the forest.”
He described the claim as malicious and baseless, insisting it neither originated from him nor from anyone authorised to speak on his behalf.
He said the motive behind the fabricated story was to damage his reputation, create unnecessary tension between him and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and distract from ongoing governance efforts.
The former minister noted that the genuine reasons for his resignation were formally communicated to the President and subsequently made public through conventional and social media.
He added that any attempts to suggest an inflammatory motive were the work of mischief makers.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu, the APC leadership, and Nigerians, maintaining his commitment to national peace and stability as well as the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He also restated his support for the ruling party as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.