Former Governor of Niger State and sitting lawmaker representing Niger North Senatorial District, Senator Abubakar Sani Bello, has dismissed reports linking him to opposition political groups, reaffirming his ‘unwavering loyalty’ to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement by his Media Adviser, Muawiyah Yusuf Muye, the lawmaker categorically dissociated himself from the ‘Niger Rescue Movement’ (NRM) and any political faction operating against the interest of the APC-led government at both the state and national levels.
Addressing recent speculations sparked by the exit of some of his political associates from the ruling party, Sani Bello clarified that he neither authorized nor endorsed the formation of any group opposing the APC.
‘The Senator wishes to categorically dissociate himself from reports linking him, directly or indirectly, to the Niger Rescue Movement (NRM) or any political group that opposes the APC-led government and its interests across Niger State,’ the statement read.
‘Senator Abubakar Sani Bello has neither endorsed nor authorized the formation of, or participation in, any such movement. Any attempt to associate his name with the activities, statements, or decisions of the group is false, misleading, and should be disregarded.’
Acknowledging that some of his close associates had recently defected to opposition parties, the former governor noted that while political choices remain individual rights, their decisions should not be misconstrued as an endorsement from him.
‘The Senator recognizes the fact that some of his associates have defected to opposition parties for one reason or another, and they reserve the right to do so as adults,’ Muye stated.
‘However, this does not in any way indicate that the Senator supports such a move, as many other associates, political mentees, and supporters have remained in the APC and continue to work for the progress of both the party and the APC-led government.’
The statement maintained that the former governor being one of the founding leaders of the APC, reiterated his commitment to democratic values, peace, and the development of Niger State through official party channels.
‘As a respected statesman and former Governor who is one of the founding fathers of the APC in Nigeria, Senator Sani Bello remains committed to promoting peace, unity, democratic values, and the progress of Niger State and Nigeria,’ the statement added, recalling a previous interview where the senator publicly reaffirmed his loyalty to the party.
The lawmaker’s media team urged party members, media organizations, and the general public to disregard unverified rumors and rely strictly on official channels for information regarding the senator’s political stance.