By Abiola Olawale
The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has expressed his willingness to serve as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate in the 2027 presidential election if called upon.
This is as Barau emphasized his loyalty to the President and focus on governance over what he described as “premature political campaigns.”
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Barau addressed growing speculation about his potential role in the upcoming election, sparked by calls from northern groups, including the Northern Nigeria Progressive Youth Assembly (NNPYA).
“I’m 100% loyal to Mr. President. In 2027, I’ll do whatever he tells me to do,” Barau stated, highlighting his deep political alignment with Tinubu, whom he described as a mentor and “political father.”
He noted their shared progressive ideology, saying, “We are both from the progressive family. Our fates are tied together.”
However, Barau dismissed the current speculation as “premature” and urged supporters to focus on supporting Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda rather than engaging in early politicking.
Barau also distanced himself from such campaigns, clarifying that he has no knowledge of or involvement with groups promoting his candidacy. “I don’t know the people behind those campaigns. They are not acting on my behalf,” he said.
The calls for Barau to join Tinubu’s 2027 ticket have intensified, particularly among northern youths who view the Kano North Senator as a strong and experienced leader with significant grassroots support.
The NNPYA recently urged Tinubu to consider Barau as a successor to Vice President Kashim Shettima should the later not run as Tinubu’s VP candidate, citing his influence in securing votes for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano during previous elections.
This comes amidst speculation that Shettima has reportedly fallen out with Tinubu.
However, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga had debunked the speculation, asserting that no official discussions on the matter have begun within the party.
Onanuga also stated that the president would choose his running mate only after the next APC convention.
