Niger East APC stakeholders reaffirm loyalty to Gov Bago, backs zoning, Tinubu’s second term
The Deputy Governor of Niger State, Comrade Yakubu Garba, has reaffirmed the commitment of All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders in Niger East Senatorial District (Zone B) to the zoning arrangement in the state, while also declaring their unwavering loyalty to Governor Mohammed Umar Bago.
Comrade Garba made this known shortly after an enlarged stakeholders’ meeting held at his official residence in Minna on Saturday, describing the gathering as an avenue to strengthen unity and foster political understanding ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He clarified that the meeting was not an official party gathering, but rather an impromptu engagement convened in his capacity as a leader from the zone to bring together key political actors and stakeholders for dialogue.
According to him, unity remains the cornerstone for achieving meaningful development, stressing that no socio-economic or security progress can be attained in an atmosphere of division.
“As leaders, we must come together, set aside our individual interests, and continue to engage one another to ensure that politics is played with decorum and without bitterness, especially as we approach 2027,” he said.
The Deputy Governor said the outcome of the meeting was a unanimous decision by stakeholders to reaffirm their total loyalty and support for Governor Bago, describing their commitment as “non-negotiable and absolute.”
“We shall do everything possible to support the Governor to succeed, so that we can proudly say we were part of a team that contributed to the development of Niger State,” Garba stated.
He also disclosed that the stakeholders endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, noting that the decision aligns with the position of the ruling APC.
“As loyal party members, we stand by the decision of our party. We have endorsed President Tinubu for a second term, and we are committed to supporting that mandate,” he added.
On the issue of zoning, Comrade Garba reiterated the importance of the long standing arrangement in promoting fairness and inclusivity in the state, describing it as a mutually agreed principle upheld over the years.
He expressed concern over growing debates around zoning, including among some members of the party, and urged all stakeholders to respect and sustain the arrangement in the interest of unity and future generations.
“Zoning may not be in the constitution, but it is a product of mutual understanding and fairness among our people. It must be upheld for the stability and progress of the state,” he said.
Comrade Garba further called for calm across political divides, urging all interest groups to embrace peace and unity while working towards the collective goal of ensuring APC’s victory in the 2027 elections.
He emphasized that while opposition remains a vital part of democracy, it should be exercised responsibly and without undermining the unity and development of the state.
