Minister Tuggar Rejects Yuguda's Allegations as Baseless and Defamatory
Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar has firmly dismissed allegations made by former Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda, describing them as unfounded and defamatory. In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, the minister categorically denied claims that he offered financial inducements to influence internal processes within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bauchi State.
The statement asserted that these allegations lack credible evidence and are designed to mislead party members while creating unnecessary tension within the party. It highlighted Tuggar's longstanding integrity throughout his public service career, emphasizing that he has never engaged in such conduct.
Context of the Dispute and Party Unity Call
The controversy centers on the position of APC State Secretary in Bauchi, traditionally zoned to Katagum Zone. According to the statement, stakeholders, including party leaders and legislators, have agreed that the current officeholder should remain in place. It accused Yuguda of attempting to unilaterally replace the State Secretary with a preferred candidate, a move allegedly rejected by stakeholders in the zone.
The statement described Yuguda as a lone voice pushing what it termed a baseless agitation. It further criticized his political history, citing a pattern of shifting allegiances across parties, such as his exit from the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) in 2009 despite benefiting from its support, and later contesting under the Green Party of Nigeria.
Tuggar's Commitment and Appeal for Cohesion
Tuggar's camp also dismissed claims that Yuguda played a role in the minister's political rise, arguing instead that the former governor benefited from Tuggar's support base during the 2007 elections in Bauchi State. The statement reaffirmed Tuggar's focus on his national duties, noting his commitment to advancing Nigeria's diplomatic and economic interests in line with the administration's agenda.
It urged APC members in Bauchi State to prioritize unity, respect party processes, and work collectively to strengthen the party. The minister remains a founding member of the APC and has consistently supported the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, always working to strengthen party structures through due process, consultation, and respect for internal democracy.
