A growing political divide between Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, and his Deputy, Yakubu Garba, has escalated, with increasing rumors suggesting that Garba might resign from his post. The tension was further fueled by Garba’s quiet departure from his official residence, which is located across from the Justice Legbo Kutigi International Conference Centre in Minna.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Reports indicate that the conflict began shortly after both officials assumed office in May 2023. Speculation points to a leaked audio recording of Garba criticizing Governor Bago’s decisions as a trigger for the rift. This recording was allegedly sent to the governor, leading to a loss of trust between them.

Some political insiders speculate that the conflict is part of a broader political strategy involving power brokers in the Niger East region, who seek to reduce Garba’s influence ahead of the 2031 gubernatorial race. These insiders also suggest that Garba has been marginalized within the state administration, with minimal authority granted to him, even during the governor’s travels. His only significant role as acting governor was in November 2024, when Bago traveled abroad.

The latest escalation involved a phone call from Governor Bago, who reportedly warned Garba about controlling his supporters who were upset with the APC’s local government consensus list for the upcoming November 2025 elections. Following this conversation, Garba reportedly vacated his official residence.

There are growing claims that Garba may be preparing to resign, with sources suggesting he has already removed personal belongings from his residence and office, awaiting Bago’s return from an official trip to Russia. However, both the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary and the Deputy Governor’s spokesperson have denied any such resignation.

The rift is also tied to the APC consensus list for local government elections, with Garba’s preferred candidate for Shiroro LGA being replaced by another individual, leading to protests in the region. Additionally, the deputy governor’s office budget has allegedly been slashed, and some of his responsibilities have been reassigned to the Governor’s younger brother, the Deputy Chief of Staff.

In the midst of the tension, there are protests from stakeholders in other local government areas, like Mokwa, where similar issues over consensus lists are causing dissatisfaction within the APC ranks.

Despite these growing tensions, some political figures have urged Garba to reconsider his resignation, though it remains uncertain how the situation will unfold.