Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau has addressed growing speculation about his possible emergence as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate in the 2027 general elections. Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, Barau said his focus remains on supporting the current administration’s development agenda.
He downplayed calls from political groups endorsing him for the vice-presidential ticket, calling such moves premature. “Honestly, I don’t want to say much about this now,” Barau responded when asked about the rumours. “Mr. President is working tirelessly to redirect the country toward prosperity. At this point, the focus should be on governance, not politics.”
While he expressed appreciation for the confidence shown in him, Barau said he had no affiliations with the groups promoting his name. “I told those groups I don’t even know them. I urged them to channel their energy toward supporting the President’s goals. When the time for politics comes, we will cross that bridge.”
Barau spoke fondly of President Tinubu, whom he described as a political mentor. He credited the President for facilitating his return to the Senate in 2023 and supporting his rise to the position of Deputy Senate President. “If he ever asks me to serve in any capacity, I’ll say, ‘Thank you, sir,’ and I’ll do it. I am 100 percent loyal to him.”
He stressed the importance of unity within the ruling political family, describing Tinubu as a visionary leader with Nigeria’s best interests at heart. “Our fates are tied together. When the President succeeds, we all succeed,” Barau said.
On constitutional reform, the Deputy Senate President announced that the Senate is preparing for nationwide public hearings as part of the next phase of amendments. He said 59 bills and 31 proposals would be reviewed during the sessions. Each of the six geo-political zones will host a hearing, with senators assigned to chair the sessions. Barau himself will oversee proceedings in the North-West.
He encouraged Nigerians to submit their views and participate actively in shaping the future of the country through legislative reform.
