“My Loyalty Is to Tinubu, Not 2027 Politics” – Barau Shuts Down VP Speculation

Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau, has dismissed growing speculations linking him to the 2027 vice-presidential race, asserting that his current focus is squarely on supporting President Bola Tinubu’s administration and delivering good governance.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, Barau described the calls by various political groups urging him to position himself as Tinubu’s running mate as both premature and misplaced. He emphasized that the nation’s attention should be directed toward economic recovery and policy implementation, not early politicking.

“Mr President has been working tirelessly to redirect the country toward prosperity. At this point, the focus should be on governance, not politics,” Barau said.

He revealed that he had distanced himself from the groups promoting him, adding that while he appreciated their confidence in him, now is not the time for such conversations. According to him, he urged the groups to channel their energy into supporting the President’s vision for national development.

Barau credited President Tinubu for pivotal moments in his political career, including his return to the Senate in 2023 and his emergence as Deputy Senate President. He described the President as a political father figure, assuring that he remains fully loyal to his leadership.

“If he ever asks me to serve in any capacity, I’ll say, ‘Thank you, sir,’ and I’ll do it. I am 100 per cent loyal to him,” he said.

The Kano-born lawmaker called for unity within the ruling party and across the political landscape, describing Tinubu as a kind-hearted and visionary leader deserving of national support. He stressed that the success of the administration was in the interest of all Nigerians, noting that “our fates are tied together.”

Barau also touched on the Senate’s upcoming constitutional review process, revealing that a series of zonal public hearings would be held nationwide to gather citizens’ input on proposed reforms. He urged Nigerians to take advantage of the opportunity to submit memoranda and participate actively in shaping the country’s future through legislative action.