The Comptroller General of Immigration, Mr Muhammad Babandede, has denied attending the caucus meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna recently.

He also denied allegation of partisan politics making the rounds against him in a section of the media.

In a statement issued by spokesman of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Mr Sunday James, in Abuja on Sunday, the NIS boss said he only attended a meeting of the Jigawa Elders Forum.

The Forum discussed developmental issues bothering on the wellbeing and progress of the good people of Jigawa.

The forum, according to him, is the umbrella body for Jigawa elders at home and outside, and has no partisan political affiliation.

“With my present position, I cannot disconnect or severe myself from my people by cutting off relationships at the home front, which has no political undertone.

“I have said it at various times and still saying that I have no political ambition whatsoever, and will rather continue as a farmer after my career in the Immigration service.

“My focus on tasking national assignment is paramount, and such rumours will not deter me from lending a helping hand and keeping my relationship as an elder in the state,” he said.

Governor Mohammed Badaru of Jigawa also issued a statement, describing the rumour, which is circulating online, as “mischievous and malicious”.

The statement was signed by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the governor, Mr Bello Zaki, on Sunday.

“The truth is Muhammad Babandede was in Kaduna for Jigawa State Elder Forum meeting.

“In attendance were the Jigawa State Governor, state and federal lawmakers, politicians, civil servants, among others.

“The CG of immigration attended that meeting in his capacity as an indigene and elder in Jigawa State

“Thus, the publication linking him with partisanship is condemnable and irresponsible in the highest order.”

While enjoining well-meaning Nigerians to disregard the rumour, the governor urged the media to cross-check their facts before going public.

Public service rules forbid career public servants such as the Immigration boss from partisan politics. (NAN)

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