Dr. Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, President of the 9th Senate and current Senator representing Yobe North, has firmly denied rumors suggesting he plans to defect from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP). In a statement released on Sunday by his Media Adviser, Ezrel Tabiowo, Lawan labeled the circulating reports and posters as “entirely false, baseless, and without any merit,” reaffirming his deep-rooted commitment to the APC.
Lawan, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Defence, emphasized his longstanding allegiance to the APC, a party he has been instrumental in shaping since its inception. “He remains a steadfast and loyal member of the APC, a party he has proudly associated with and contributed to since its formation,” the statement read, underscoring his role as a key stakeholder dedicated to advancing the party’s collective goals alongside the government.
Highlighting his political consistency, the statement noted that Lawan’s 25-year career in the National Assembly stands out for its lack of defections—a rarity among Nigerian politicians. Elected to the House of Representatives in 1999 under the All People’s Party (APP), which later became the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP), he transitioned to the Senate in 2007. The ANPP merged with two other parties to form the APC on February 6, 2013, a platform Lawan has since championed. “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,” the statement affirmed.
The former Senate President also expressed unwavering support for Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, praising his efforts to deliver good governance and improve living conditions in the state. Lawan pledged to collaborate with Buni to realize a shared vision of prosperity for Yobe. Similarly, he endorsed the policies and reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, voicing confidence in its commitment to transforming Nigeria and tackling national challenges.
Addressing the defection rumors directly, Lawan’s camp urged the public, APC members, and supporters to dismiss the claims as fabrications by “mischief-makers” intent on sowing discord for their own political agendas. The statement stressed that Lawan remains focused on his legislative duties and leadership role, dedicated to supporting Tinubu’s APC-led government in delivering sustainable development and good governance to Nigerians.
The rebuttal comes amid a wave of political realignments in Nigeria, with some prominent figures switching parties ahead of the 2027 elections. Lawan’s firm stance quashes speculation about his future, reinforcing his status as a stabilizing force within the APC and a loyal ally of its leadership.
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