Niger State Governor Umaru Bago has named his deputy, Yakubu Garba, as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Bago announced Garba’s nomination on Tuesday at the Government House in Minna, while calling on political and religious stakeholders to promote peace and avoid actions capable of heightening tensions in the state.
The governor urged Garba to remain open to all groups and individuals, including those opposed to his nomination, stressing the importance of unity, harmony and peaceful coexistence in Niger State.
Bago said leaders and stakeholders have a responsibility to support peace efforts, particularly as the state and the country continue to face security challenges.
He cautioned against inflammatory statements and actions that could create political divisions or undermine the stability of the state.
Congratulating Garba on his nomination, the governor advised him not to take opposition to his candidacy personally, but to engage with all stakeholders in the interest of the state’s development.
The announcement comes amid recent disagreements and calls by some groups for a change in the choice of running mate ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
