Niger State Governor, Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, has denied a report alleging that he asked former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, to beg his deputy and others that dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state to return.

Aliyu, who debunked the report during a courtesy visit by the Federation of Advocates for Fair, Credible and Peaceful Election (FAFCPE) led by elder statesman, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai, noted that “it is not unusual to see politicians decamping during electioneering period," adding that those who have defected have the right to do so.

He explained that currently he has passed the level of going to beg IBB or any one on such issue, saying every politician is free to decide which party they want to associate with.

The governor, however, called on politicians not to discriminate or victimise any one for making any decision, arguing that politics must be played without bitterness between all those participating.

“Fighting within and outside party platforms should be discouraged, regardless of who wins, Nigerians must understand that the unity of the country remains sacrosanct,” he said.

Aliyu then restated the need for violence-free elections and maintenance of peace as the political terrain gets more volatile.

Speaking earlier, Yakasai told Aliyu that the group was in the state to stress the need for peaceful conduct of election in the north.

•Adapted from a National Mirror report. Photo shows Governor Aliyu.