Breaking: Tension as deputy governor reportedly moves to resign

The Deputy Governor of Niger State, Yakubu Garba, is reportedly on the verge of resigning from office, amid escalating tensions with Governor Umaru Bago.

According to a report by Daily Nigerian, Garba began moving his personal belongings out of the official deputy governor’s residence over the weekend, signaling an imminent departure. Sources familiar with the matter disclosed that unusual activity was observed at the residence on Saturday and Sunday, fueling speculation that Garba is preparing to step down.

“As I speak to you, he has substantially moved his belongings from the official residence to his private home. His resignation could happen at any moment,” a source told the publication.

In a bid to avert the looming resignation, several traditional rulers were said to have visited Garba on Sunday night to persuade him to reconsider. However, it remains unclear if the meeting had any effect on his decision.

Insiders point to a widening rift between Garba and Governor Bago as the root cause of the crisis. Despite being elected on the same ticket, Garba has reportedly faced growing marginalization within the state government. Sources say he has been sidelined from key decisions and activities, and recent developments have further strained the relationship.

One of the flashpoints was the deputy governor’s preferred choice for a local government election candidate being overridden. In Shiroro, Garba’s home local government area, he and other APC leaders had endorsed Babangida Kudodo. However, the party’s final list — reportedly influenced by Governor Bago — featured another candidate, Isyaku Bawa.

Similar alterations of consensus candidates across the state, allegedly on the governor’s orders, have deepened discontent among party stakeholders and allies of the deputy governor.

Adding to the grievances, sources revealed that Garba’s influence within the administration has been greatly diminished, with his monthly allowances and overhead costs allegedly slashed significantly.

“Nobody consults him on any matter. He has no control over any aspect of governance. Despite his loyalty and contributions to the party’s success, he has been treated with consistent disrespect,” a source said.

While Yakubu Garba has yet to issue an official statement regarding the rumored resignation, his Press Secretary, Ummikhultume Abdullahi, said she was unaware of any such plans. She added that she recently met with Garba at his official residence and noted that he had not completely moved out.

As the political drama unfolds, the people of Niger State and the political community at large await confirmation on whether Garba will indeed make his exit official.