Minna, Niger State — Uncertainty surrounds the reported resignation of Niger State’s Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba. Since the weekend, claims have spread that he has vacated his official residence and is preparing to tender his resignation from the position, but his spokesperson has dismissed these reports as mere rumors.

Speculation intensified as reports emerged that the Deputy Governor, believed to be from Shiroro Local Government, had moved out of his official residence and was not seen reporting to work. Meanwhile, traffic in and around the residence decreased drastically, fueling further concerns about his whereabouts. Yet, in a swift rebuttal, his Chief Press Secretary, Ummikhultume Abdullahi, told reporters that the Deputy Governor remains in his official residence, and no resignation has taken place. “I am presently in his official residence; he is upstairs and I am downstairs. I can tell you that the Deputy Governor is still in office and has not resigned,” she affirmed.

The controversy is further fueled by recent political tensions within the state. Reports suggest that the Deputy Governor’s disagreement over the selection of a candidate for Shiroro Local Government in upcoming elections might have contributed to the unrest. An authoritative source hinted that there may be an intention for the Deputy Governor to submit his resignation soon, describing their relationship as “cosmetic” and possibly signaling an impending departure from office for “more honourable” reasons.

Since taking office nearly two years ago, both Governor Muhammed Umaru Bago and Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba have demonstrated visible camaraderie, often attending official functions together, including a recent event at Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna before the governor’s trip abroad. Nonetheless, recent developments suggest a possible shift in their political relationship, with some insiders insinuating that the current situation might be temporary or strategic.

As of now, the suspense continues, with the public waiting for official confirmation. Meanwhile, the fate of Niger’s second-in-command remains uncertain amid swirling rumors of resignation and political discord.