Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has taken decisive action by suspending one of his aides for publishing an unauthorised political article. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, involved speculation about the 2027 Niger State governorship election.
Unauthorised Publication Sparks Swift Action
The suspended aide, Sa'idu Enagi, authored a piece titled "Malagi 2027," which analysed potential scenarios for the next governorship contest in Niger State. According to an official statement released on Thursday, 8 January 2026, the publication was done without the minister's knowledge, consent, or approval.
The statement was signed by the Minister's Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim. It contained a formal disclaimer, completely distancing Minister Idris from the content of the write-up. The public was directed to disregard the article in its entirety.
"The write-up and all its contexts are hereby vehemently disclaimed," the statement declared. It emphasised that the minister is wholly dedicated to his official responsibilities and has no time for political distractions.
Investigation Ordered and Professionalism Reaffirmed
In response to the breach, Minister Idris has mandated an immediate investigation into how and why the publication was made. The ministry's statement reiterated the minister's unwavering commitment to professionalism and ensuring that individuals in his office do not exploit their official positions to advance personal or speculative political agendas.
The minister firmly rejected any suggestion that the article reflected his own political ambitions or stance regarding the 2027 elections. He affirmed his continued dedication to his mandate at the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
Minister and Governor's Relationship Described as Cordial
The official communication went a step further to highlight the positive relationship between Minister Idris and the Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago. The statement described their rapport as "positive and mutually beneficial" to the development of Niger State.
"It is noteworthy that the Honourable Minister and his home state governor enjoy a positive, mutual relationship for the greater good of Niger State," the statement noted. It added that premature political speculations about the 2027 governorship race could potentially undermine these collaborative objectives and the state's progress.
This incident underscores the strict boundaries expected between official government duties and personal political commentary, especially for aides serving in sensitive ministerial positions.
