Former Nigerian Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru, has dismissed an online report claiming he resigned due to the government’s actions against bandits. In a statement, Mr. Badaru described the report as “malicious, false, and baseless.” He emphasized that his resignation, announced on Monday, was solely due to health reasons, which had been previously communicated to the public.

The report in question suggested that Mr. Badaru stepped down because he could not support the government’s efforts against bandits, referred to as “brothers” in the forest. However, Mr. Badaru stated that this claim was entirely false and intended to tarnish his reputation and create discord between him and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Mr. Badaru reiterated that his resignation was a result of health issues, which were formally communicated to the President and made public through various media channels. He expressed concern that the false report was engineered by “mischief makers” aiming to sow discord and create distractions from the government’s work.

The former minister reaffirmed his loyalty and commitment to the nation, the President, and the All Progressives Congress (APC). He expressed his dedication to the party’s success, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach. Mr. Badaru’s resignation was announced on Monday, and he has been replaced by former Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa.

The incident highlights the challenges of misinformation and the importance of verifying information through credible sources. As Nigeria prepares for upcoming elections, the spread of false reports can have significant consequences. Mr. Badaru’s statement serves as a reminder of the need for accuracy and responsible reporting in the public sphere. With the country’s political landscape evolving, it is essential for citizens to rely on trustworthy sources of information to stay informed about key developments.