Minister suspends aide over permutations on Niger State gov bid

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has suspended one of his aides, Sa’idu Enagi, over a publication speculating on the 2027 Niger State governorship election.

The minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, announced this via a statement issued on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

Ibrahim stated that Enagi published an article titled ‘Malagi 2027’, which discussed possible political permutations ahead of the next gubernatorial election in Niger State.

Ibrahim noted that the publication was written and circulated without Idris’ knowledge or approval.

He said Idris has ordered an immediate investigation into the circumstances surrounding its publication.

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He stated: “The Honourable Minister is fully focused on his responsibility superintending the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, and has no room for political distractions.

“Please disregard the write-up as the Honourable Minister neither directed nor approved the publication.

“He has directed an immediate investigation, and the aide has been issued a letter of suspension with immediate effect.

“It is noteworthy that the Honourable Minister and his home state governor, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago, enjoy a positive, mutual relationship for the greater good of Niger state, and therefore, speculations about the 2027 elections will appear inimical to these noble objectives.”

The Star