Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, has suspended one of his aides, Sa’idu Enagi, over the circulation of an unauthorised political article linked to the 2027 Niger State governorship race
The development was confirmed in a statement issued on Wednesday by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the minister. According to the ministry, the write-up titled ‘Malagi 2027’ was published and circulated without the minister’s knowledge or approval.
The article reportedly speculated on political calculations ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Niger State, a move the ministry said does not reflect Malagi’s views or intentions.
“Please disregard the write-up as the Honourable Minister neither directed nor approved the publication,” Ibrahim stated.
He added that the minister had ordered an immediate investigation into the matter and has taken disciplinary action against the aide involved.
“The Honourable Minister has directed an immediate investigation, and the aide has been issued a letter of suspension with immediate effect,” he said.
The ministry also addressed speculation surrounding Malagi’s political relationship with Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, stressing that both leaders maintain a cordial and cooperative relationship.
“It is noteworthy that the Honourable Minister and his home state governor, His Excellency Mohammed Umaru Bago, enjoy a positive, mutual relationship for the greater good of Niger State, and therefore, speculations about the 2027 elections will appear inimical to these noble objectives,” the statement noted.
The ministry further emphasised that Malagi remains fully committed to his duties at the federal level and is focused on his responsibilities as Minister of Information and National Orientation.
Malagi was nominated and confirmed as a minister by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in August 2023. Before his appointment, he had contested the 2023 Niger State governorship election under the All Progressives Congress but lost the party’s primary to Umar Bago, who later emerged as governor.
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