Barring any last-minute developments, Niger State Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba is reportedly preparing to resign from office, Daily Nigerian has learned.
Multiple sources confirmed that Garba began moving personal belongings from his official residence to his private home over the weekend, signaling his readiness to step down.
“As I speak to you, he has moved out most of his things. His resignation could happen at any moment,” a source disclosed.
It was also gathered that some traditional rulers visited the deputy governor on Sunday night to appeal to him to reconsider his decision. However, it remains unclear whether their intervention has changed his mind.
Insiders point to a deteriorating relationship between Garba and Governor Umaru Bago as the main reason for the move. Sources claim Garba has faced persistent disrespect and marginalization, often excluded from key government activities despite being elected on the same ticket.
A major trigger, according to reports, was the rejection of Garba’s preferred candidate for the upcoming local government elections. Although Garba and APC stakeholders from his local government area, Shiroro, had endorsed Babangida Kudodo, the party leadership — allegedly influenced by Governor Bago — announced Isyaku Bawa as the official candidate without consulting Garba.
Further allegations suggest that many other consensus candidates supported by party leaders were similarly replaced without consultation. Sources also claimed that Garba’s allowances and overhead payments have been significantly cut, deepening his frustration.
Efforts to reach the deputy governor for comments were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to messages.
However, his Press Secretary, Ummikhultume Abdullahi, dismissed the reports, stating, “I am not aware of any resignation plans. He has not moved out of the official residence. In fact, I just had a meeting with him there.”
The situation remains fluid as political watchers await Garba’s next move.
Credit: Sundiata Post
