Resign if you Want to Contest, Niger Gov Tells Political Appointees

By Laleye Dipo in Minna

The Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, has directed all political appointees with interest in contesting any position in next year’s election to resign.

The directive was contained in a statement in Minna Thursday which was signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Ibrahim Isah Ladan.

The statement said the decision was taken at the weekly state executive council meeting held at the Government House.

According to the statement, the decision to relieve the political appointees of their appointments was to enable interested appointees pursue their ambitions and for their effective participation in campaigns and other political activities.

The statement further said that Governor Bello recognised their support and appreciated their tremendous contributions towards the actualisation of the Restoration Agenda of his administration and therefore wished those that would be leaving success in their future endeavours.

THISDAY learnt that among the political appointees aspiring for public office is the Commissioner for Local Government, Alhaji Mohammed Jikantoro, who is rumoured to be seeking the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial ticket for Niger North senatorial zone.

He would slug it out with the Senate spokesman Sabi Ibrahim.