Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has strongly denied rumors suggesting he plans to join the opposition coalition being formed by leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ahead of the 2027 elections.

The claims, which circulated through a viral message, alleged that Buni and four other governors from the All Progressives Congress (APC) were preparing to defect to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The speculation emerged amid discussions among opposition figures planning to challenge the ruling APC in the upcoming general elections.

In a statement issued by Mamman Mohammed, Director-General of Press and Media Affairs in the Yobe State Governor’s office, Buni’s spokesperson dismissed the rumors as “baseless fabrications” with no merit. The statement emphasized that the viral message’s author had no close ties with the governor, making their predictions unfounded.

“Buni is no ordinary member of the APC; he is the essence of the party,” the statement read. “His leadership role, including serving as National Secretary and National Chairman, makes him a key figure in the APC, and any speculation regarding his departure is unjustified.”

Mamman Mohammed further suggested that those behind the rumors were likely envious of Buni’s political influence, wishing to replicate his leadership within the APC.