A massive crowd turned out on Saturday to welcome the Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, as he arrived in Jigawa State for the Babura/Garki federal constituency by-election in his home district.

The warm reception came against the backdrop of speculation that the minister might avoid the election due to growing internal tensions within the All Progressives Congress (APC). Rumours had circulated of a rift between Badaru’s loyalists and factions aligned with Governor Umar Namadi, raising doubts about his participation in the exercise.

Thousands of supporters, however, lined the streets to cheer the minister, chanting “Oyoyo Baba” in Hausa, meaning “You’re warmly welcome home, father.”

Badaru’s absence from several recent APC and state events had fueled speculation of a deepening divide, most notably at last week’s campaign rally in Babura where Governor Namadi presented the party flag to candidates in the presence of top party leaders.

His presence on Saturday, however, appeared to calm nerves and energise the APC base. Party leaders described the minister’s visit as a signal of unity and commitment ahead of the crucial poll.

“Minister Badaru’s appearance today shuts down all rumours,” said APC stalwart Musa Shehu, adding that the minister’s show of solidarity reinforced confidence in the party’s prospects and Jigawa’s development agenda.

The Babura/Garki federal constituency by-election has drawn intense attention in Jigawa, with the ruling APC seeking to consolidate its dominance amid opposition efforts to make inroads.