By Abubakar Yunusa
The Allied People’s Movement on Monday dismissed reports of a faction within the party, insisting that it remained united under the leadership of its National Chairman, Yusuf Mamman Dantalle.
A former Chairman of the party’s Board of Trustees, Muhammed Musa Bagana, also disowned a statement allegedly issued in his name rejecting the defection of Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, to the party.
Bagana, in a statement made available to journalists in Abuja on Monday, described reports of a faction in the party as “fake news” orchestrated by mischief makers bent on destabilising the APM.
He said, “I wish to state categorically that there is no faction in the Allied People’s Movement and no pending appeal in the Supreme Court or any court in Nigeria on leadership dispute in the party.”
The former BoT chairman said he welcomed the governors and their supporters into the party, describing their defection as a boost for democracy and political development in the country.
“I welcome the defection of Governor Bala Mohammed and Governor Seyi Makinde and their supporters to APM. Their defection is a giant step forward in the quest for sustainable democracy and development in Nigeria,” he stated.
Bagana added that the entry of the two governors had altered the nation’s political calculations and positioned the APM as a strong platform ahead of future elections.
He, however, alleged that some anti-democratic forces were behind reports of a purported faction identified with his name.
Bagana said he was shocked to read a statement allegedly signed by one Muhammed Bello, who claimed to be spokesman for a non-existent faction of the party.
“I don’t know anything about the statement, I did not authorise it and I don’t have any spokesman,” he declared.
He admitted that he once had political disagreements with Dantalle but noted that the issues had long been resolved amicably.
According to him, there is no leadership tussle or court case involving him and the party leadership anywhere in the country.
Bagana urged Nigerians to ignore reports of any faction in the APM, insisting that the party remained united and focused.
“The public should ignore these peddlers of fake news and agents of political destabilisation. APM is united and strong under the leadership of Dr Yusuf Mamman Dantalle,” he said.
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