President Bola Tinubu's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has firmly dismissed speculation about his interest in the Niger State governorship race ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Official Statement Rejects Political Distraction
The clarification was issued in an official statement on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, by the minister's Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim. Idris stated unequivocally that his present focus remains entirely on his responsibilities at the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation.
The minister's office moved to disclaim a write-up authored by one of his aides, Sa'idu Enagi, titled 'Malagi 2027,' which discussed potential permutations for the Niger state gubernatorial election. The office described the publication as unauthorized and without the minister's direction or approval.
Swift Action and Investigation Launched
In response to the unauthorized publication, Minister Mohammed Idris has directed an immediate investigation into the matter. The aide responsible for the write-up has been issued a letter of suspension with immediate effect.
The statement emphasized the cordial relationship between the minister and the incumbent Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago. It noted that speculations about the 2027 elections are counterproductive to the positive and mutual objectives both leaders share for the development of Niger State.
Political Landscape Ahead of 2027
This development occurs as political actors across Nigeria begin early maneuvers and calculations for the 2027 election cycle. Niger State is currently under the control of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governor Mohammed Bago, who is serving his first term and often identifies as a 'farmer governor,' is widely expected to seek re-election for a second term in 2027. He has been a prominent supporter of President Bola Tinubu. Had Minister Idris entered the race, it would have set the stage for a competitive APC primary contest in the state.
The minister's decisive denial and the subsequent disciplinary action aim to quell any political distractions and reaffirm his commitment to his national duties under the Tinubu administration.
