Ex Senate President, Lawan denies defection plan to SDP, restates loyalty to APC

The President of the 9th Senate, Dr Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, has reiterated his commitment to the All Progressives Congress, APC, denying reports and posters in circulation insinuating that he is set to leave the ruling party for the Social Democratic Party, SDP.

Lawan, who represents Yobe North Senatorial District and presently chairs the Senate Committee on Defence, declared in a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Ezrel Tabiowo and released on Sunday that “the reports are entirely false, baseless, and without any merit.”

The statement said Lawan “remains a steadfast and loyal member of the APC, a party he has proudly associated with and contributed to since its formation”, adding that”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 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,” it stressed.

The statement further reiterated the full support of the former Senate President for Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, “in his commendable efforts to deliver good governance and improve the lives of the people of the state”, saying that he remains committed to working with him to achieve the shared vision of a prosperous state.

It also expressed Lawan’s strong support for the policies and reforms of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, declaring his believes in the administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria and addressing the challenges facing the nation.

“We urge the general public, party members, and supporters to disregard these unfounded rumours and posters, as they are nothing but the handiwork of mischief-makers seeking to create unnecessary distractions and buzz for a mapped out political agenda,” the statement pleaded.

It added that “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.”