Tambuwal Not Defecting to APC, Says Media Office

The media office of Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has dismissed reports circulating on social media that the former Sokoto State governor is planning to defect from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the claims as false and baseless.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the office said Tambuwal had no intention of joining the ruling APC and urged the public to disregard speculation about a possible change in his political allegiance.

The statement was signed by Prince Daniel, Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to the senator, on behalf of the AWT Media Office.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Senator Tambuwal has no plans to join the APC,” the statement said, insisting that the reports were unfounded.

The clarification followed the circulation of photographs and video clips on social media, which reportedly fuelled speculation about the senator’s political future and possible realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

However, the media office maintained that the materials being circulated did not provide evidence that Tambuwal was negotiating to leave the ADC for the APC.

According to the statement, the senator’s interactions with politicians across party lines should not be interpreted as an indication that he intends to change his political affiliation.

It described Tambuwal as a statesman with extensive political relationships and friendships across party boundaries, built over years of public service and mutual respect.

“Political civility is no proof of political realignment,” the statement said, adding that exchanging greetings or interacting with members of another political party did not amount to negotiations to defect.

The media office reaffirmed that Tambuwal remained committed to the ADC, stressing that his immediate political focus was on strengthening the party, promoting cooperation and mobilising Nigerians ahead of the 2027 elections.

It also urged political supporters and members of the public not to allow unverified reports to distract attention from the country’s pressing economic, security and governance challenges.

The statement argued that public discourse should prioritise substantive issues affecting Nigerians rather than speculation about politicians’ movements between political parties.

It further maintained that Tambuwal’s commitment to accountable leadership, democratic values and the welfare of Nigerians remained unchanged.

The media office called on media organisations and social media commentators to verify reports concerning the senator’s political activities before publication, urging them to contact the AWT Media Office for clarification.

“Speculation must never be presented as fact,” the statement added.

Tambuwal, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives and former governor of Sokoto State, remains an influential figure in Nigerian politics. His political position and relationships across party lines are likely to attract attention as political parties and their leaders begin preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The latest clarification seeks to put an end to the rumours of a possible defection, with the senator’s media office insisting that his political allegiance remains with the ADC.