As conversations around the 2027 general elections begin to stir, Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau, has addressed growing speculation about the possibility of him running as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate, stating he would wholeheartedly accept the role if asked.
Barau, speaking to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, emphasized that his primary focus remains on supporting the Tinubu administration’s governance priorities, rather than engaging in premature political speculation.
“Honestly, I don’t want to say much about this now,” Barau said when asked directly about the rumors.
“Mr. President is working day and night to steer the country towards progress. Right now, the emphasis should be on governance, not politicking.”
While several political groups have reportedly begun lobbying for Barau to be considered as a vice-presidential candidate in 2027, the Kano-born senator downplayed their efforts, calling the timing “misplaced and unnecessary.”
“I don’t even know most of the groups pushing this narrative,” he remarked.
“I appreciate their confidence in me, but I urged them to redirect their energy toward supporting the President’s developmental agenda.”
Barau went on to describe President Tinubu as a political mentor and father figure, crediting him with pivotal moments in his political journey, including his return to the Senate in 2023 and his emergence as Deputy Senate President.
“If the President ever calls on me to serve in any capacity, I’ll simply say, ‘Thank you, sir.’ I will do it with all my heart. I am 100% loyal to him,” he declared.
The Deputy Senate President also stressed the importance of unity within the Progressive political fold, commending Tinubu’s leadership qualities.
“Our destinies are interconnected. When the President succeeds, all of us succeed. He is a kind-hearted, visionary leader who deserves the full backing of Nigerians,” he said.
Senate Gears Up for Constitutional Reform Hearings
Turning to legislative matters, Barau revealed that the Senate is set to review 59 bills and 31 proposals as part of the ongoing push for constitutional reform. He called on Nigerians to actively participate by submitting memoranda and engaging with the process during the zonal public hearings scheduled across the six geo-political regions.
Details of the hearings include:
- South-South (Ikot Ekpene): Chaired by Senate President Godswill Akpabio or his representative
- North-West (Kano): Chaired by Jibrin Barau
- South-West (Lagos): Led by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele
- North-Central (Jos): Chaired by Deputy Senate Leader Lola Ashiru
- North-East (Maiduguri): Led by Chief Whip Senator Mohammed Monguno
- South-East (Enugu): Headed by Deputy Chief Whip Senator Peter Nwebonyi
“These hearings are a historic opportunity for Nigerians to shape the constitutional landscape of our country. We urge citizens to participate actively,” Barau said.
As the 2027 political landscape gradually takes shape, Barau’s measured yet loyal posture signals both strategic patience and readiness for service, aligning himself firmly behind President Tinubu’s leadership—while keeping the door open for higher responsibilities.
