The President of the 9th Senate, Ahmad Lawan, has denied media reports claiming he plans to defect from the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, to the Social Democratic Party, SDP.
The denial was contained in a statement issued by his media adviser, Ezrel Tabiowo, on Sunday.
Mr Lawan, who represents the Yobe North Senatorial District, affirmed that he is committed to the APC and proud of his role as a founding member and key stakeholder.
The statement read: ”The attention of the Office of Senator Ahmad Lawan, the President of the 9th Senate and Distinguished Senator representing Yobe North Senatorial District, has been drawn to misleading reports and posters circulating in some quarters, insinuating that he is set to leave the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the Social Democratic Party, SDP.
“We wish to categorically state that these reports are entirely false, baseless, and without any merit. Senator Ahmad Lawan remains a steadfast and loyal member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party he has proudly associated with and contributed to since its formation.
“He remains a key stakeholder in the APC and will continue to work with the party and the government to ensure the success of their collective goals.
“For the record, throughout his illustrious political career spanning twenty-five years as a member of the National Assembly, Senator Ahmad Lawan is one of Nigeria’s few politicians with no defection record since inception.
“In 1999, he was elected into the House of Representatives and transitioned to the Senate in 2007, on the platform of the All People’s Party,APP, which was later renamed ‘All Nigeria People’s Party,ANPP’.
“The ANPP was amongst the three minority parties that merged to birth the All Progressives Congress on 6th February 2013.
“Senator Lawan is a firm believer in the vision and principles of the APC, and he continues to work tirelessly with other party leaders and members to strengthen the party and advance its agenda for the betterment of our nation.
“Senator Lawan reiterates his full support for Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, in his commendable efforts to deliver good governance and improve the lives of the people of Yobe State.
“He commends Governor Buni’s leadership and remains committed to working with him to achieve the shared vision of a prosperous Yobe State.
“Furthermore, Senator Ahmad Lawan expresses his strong support for the policies and reforms of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration. He believes in the administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria and addressing the nation’s challenges.
He said the rumour is the handiwork of mischief-makers seeking to create unnecessary distractions and buzz for a mapped-out political agenda.
“Senator Ahmad Lawan remains focused on his responsibilities as a lawmaker and a leader, and he is committed to supporting the APC-led administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in delivering good governance and sustainable development to all Nigerians,” the statement added.
