A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) leader in Jigawa State, Alhaji Auwalu Gumel, has defended the immediate past Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, insisting that the former minister “did his best” for Nigeria despite the persistent security challenges during his tenure.
In a statement issued on Wednesday Gumle acknowledged that Badaru, a civilian with no prior military background, faced extraordinary difficulties but demonstrated remarkable dedication.
“His Excellency Badaru Abubakar, no doubt, did tremendously well in the area of security,” Gumel said.
“The passion he brought to the job and his deep understanding of the dynamics of social strife adequately prepared him for the task.”
The APC chieftain accused “sponsored faceless groups” of waging politically motivated attacks against the former minister, urging Nigerians to recognise Badaru’s contributions rather than join the criticism.
He added that Badaru “remains fully committed to Nigeria’s security and safety” and continues to support President Bola Tinubu’s success even after leaving office.
Badaru tendered his resignation as Minister of Defence earlier this week and has been replaced by the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (rtd).
The Senate screened and confirmed General Musa on Wednesday.
Badaru, a two-term former Governor of Jigawa State, served as Minister of Defence from August 2023 until his resignation.
His tenure coincided with intensified military operations against banditry, insurgency and separatist agitation across various regions.
