Minister vs Governor: Tension in Jigawa as Badaru, Namadi fight for supremacy
The relationship between Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State and his predecessor, now Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, has transitioned from mere whispers of discord to an openly discussed topic in political circles and on social media platforms across the state and beyond.
Although both leaders maintain a public front of calmness, the proxy conflict between their supporters has escalated significantly. Stakeholders worry that if the situation is not addressed, the current tension in the political atmosphere could spiral into a full-blown crisis, potentially jeopardising the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Namadi’s position ahead of the 2027 general elections.
How the Cold War Started
The disagreement reportedly began early in the current administration, starting with the selection of the Speaker of the House of Assembly.
At a stakeholders’ meeting in Kano before the inauguration of the current assembly in June 2023, which was convened by the minister, Governor Namadi was urged to support the re-election of Idris Garba from Jahun State Constituency as Speaker of the 8th Assembly. This was in line with the established zoning arrangement: the governor from Jigawa North-East, the deputy governor from Jigawa North-West, and the Speaker from Jigawa Central or South-West.
However, after the meeting, the governor changed his stance and backed Aliyu Dangyatin, a Quantity Surveyor from Miga State Constituency, as Speaker. This decision did not sit well with Badaru’s camp.
Governor Namadi’s presence at the Assembly during the election and inauguration of Dangyatin underscored his resolve, while Idris Garba and APC State Chairman Aminu Sani Gumel were notably absent. The opposition to Garba’s re-election was widespread, even within his zone, due to allegations of high-handedness. This widespread sentiment encouraged Namadi to opt for a new Speaker.
‘Technical’ Problem
Despite the initial fallout, the governor retained some of Badaru’s appointees in his 15-member cabinet and allowed key figures in government agencies to remain. However, his decision to appoint technocrats as technical assistants, who hold significant decision-making power, caused dissatisfaction among some inherited appointees.
Strained Relations
Signs of a worsening relationship became evident in April during the failed impeachment attempt against Speaker Dangyatin while he was on the governor’s entourage to Saudi Arabia. The move was attributed to Badaru loyalists, and its aftermath led to the suspension of four local government chairmen perceived to be the ringleaders.
The tension escalated further during the October 5 local government elections, where Governor Namadi reportedly sidelined the minister by nominating all chairmanship and councillorship candidates without consulting him. This act was seen as a betrayal by Badaru’s supporters, who argue that the minister brought Namadi into politics, first as Commissioner for Finance in 2015 and later as deputy governor in 2019.
Discordant Tunes in APC
The fallout has created divisions within the state APC. For instance, during the zonal campaigns before the local government elections, the party chairman was conspicuously absent. More recently, the minister donated ₦20 million and relief items directly to victims of the Majia petrol tanker explosion in Taura LGA, bypassing the state government. This move angered the governor’s camp, which viewed it as an attempt to undermine his authority.
An APC chieftain, speaking anonymously, criticised the minister’s approach, suggesting that donations should have been channelled through the state government to avoid political misinterpretations.
A faction within the APC, the APC Solidarity Vanguard, accused the minister of anti-party activities and urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene. However, APC State Chairman Aminu Gumel dismissed the group’s claims, defending the minister’s contributions to the party and condemning attempts to create discord.
Ministerial Appointment Sparks Debate
The appointment of Dr Suwaiba Ahmed, the current Minister of State for Education, has further fuelled tensions. Critics argue that it is unfair for Babura LGA, which already has a minister in Badaru, to hold two ministerial positions.
Governor Calls for Unity
Upon returning from a three-week vacation in the Middle East, Governor Namadi addressed the situation, denying any rift within the party. He emphasised the need for unity and cautioned against individuals attempting to sow discord.
“We have a mandate to deliver, and we must remain focused,” the governor said. “Differences are inevitable, but they must not disrupt the peace and progress of Jigawa State.”
Governor Namadi urged patience and unity among APC members, assuring them that the party’s interests would be protected.
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