By peterside Rejoice
Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, has addressed rising calls for him to become President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s running mate in the 2027 general election, declaring his total loyalty to the President and readiness to accept any responsibility assigned to him.
Speaking to journalists during a press conference on Wednesday in Abuja, Barau stated that while he appreciates the support from groups advocating for his selection as running mate, he believes now is not the time for politics but for focused governance.
“Honestly, I don’t want to say much about this now. One thing is very clear Mr. President, since the inception of this administration, has been trying hard to change the trajectory of the country in a way that brings prosperity. He inherited many challenges, and we’ve been working with him day and night,” Barau said.
He described President Tinubu as the father of the nation, noting that his open-minded and inclusive leadership has inspired loyalty and commitment from his allies. Barau urged Nigerians to support the President instead of being distracted by premature political discussions.
He dismissed the activities of political groups campaigning for his 2027 candidacy, saying he had advised them to redirect their energy toward supporting the President’s current efforts.
“When the time comes, we’ll play politics. But for now, this is the time for governance,” he emphasized.
Barau further disclosed the depth of his relationship with the President, revealing how Tinubu personally intervened during the political crisis in Kano to ensure he secured the senatorial ticket in 2023 and supported his eventual emergence as Deputy Senate President.
“You’ll be surprised if I tell you what he has done for me and my people. Mr. President is a very kind-hearted person. He stood by me in difficult times. So if, in 2027, he tells me to work with him in any capacity, I will say ‘Thank you, sir,’ and I will do it. I’m loyal to him, 100 percent,” Barau said.
He reiterated his belief in progressive politics and described himself as a loyal member of the political family from which President Tinubu also emerged. According to him, their shared values of service, integrity, and loyalty remain the driving force behind their partnership.
Earlier during the press conference, Senator Barau also spoke on the upcoming zonal public hearings for the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, which he chairs. He revealed that the committee is currently reviewing numerous bills and proposals, with further input expected from the public in the form of memoranda.
He assured that the hearings would offer citizens an opportunity to engage directly with lawmakers and influence the constitutional amendments process.
As political attention gradually turns to the 2027 elections, Barau’s comments reflect the balancing act between public service and emerging political ambitions with loyalty to the President firmly at the center of his current stance.
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