By Collins Yakubu-Hammer
Abuja, Jan. 7, 2025 (NAN)
The office of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, has moved swiftly to quell political speculation, firmly disassociating the minister from an unauthorized document discussing the 2027 gubernatorial elections in Niger State. The action underscores a strict adherence to the mandate provided by President Bola Tinubu and highlights the delicate balance ministers must maintain between their official duties and personal political affiliations.
In an official statement released in Abuja on Wednesday, the Minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Malam Rabiu Ibrahim, categorically disclaimed a write-up authored by a ministerial aide, Sa’idu Enagi. The document, entitled ‘Malagi 2027,’ contained political permutations for the upcoming state elections. Ibrahim emphasized that the minister had neither directed nor approved the publication, which is viewed as a significant distraction from his core responsibilities.
“The write-up and all its contexts are hereby vehemently disclaimed,” the statement read. “The Minister is fully focused on his responsibility superintending the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation given to him by President Bola Tinubu and has no room for political distractions.”
The ministerial office announced immediate disciplinary measures, including the suspension of the aide and the launch of an internal investigation. This rapid response is a standard protocol in damage control, aimed at containing the narrative and preventing the unauthorized views of a staff member from being misconstrued as the official position of the minister or the administration. It serves as a public demonstration of discipline and focus within the ministry.
Further contextualizing the situation, Ibrahim clarified the minister’s relationship with the Governor of Niger State, Umaru Bago, describing it as “positive and mutual for the greater good of Niger.” This point is crucial, as it seeks to preempt any narrative of political rivalry or discord at the state level. The statement concluded that premature speculations about the 2027 elections are “inimical to these noble objectives,” framing the disavowal as an act of preserving productive governance relationships rather than mere political posturing.
This incident provides a practical case study in the challenges of political communication within a governing administration. It illustrates the constant need for officials to manage perceptions, reinforce their commitment to current national assignments, and insulate their offices from speculative politics that could undermine their credibility or the president’s agenda. The decisive action to suspend the aide signals a priority on message discipline and the primacy of the presidential mandate over individual or subordinate political ambitions.
(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
CMY/OJO
=========
Edited by Mufutau Ojo
About Author
