Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, has responded to growing calls for him to serve as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s running mate in the 2027 general elections, saying the speculations are too early and not necessary at this time. Barau made this known while addressing journalists during a press briefing on Wednesday in Abuja, ahead of the zonal public hearings for the Senate Committee on Constitution Review.
Barau, who represents Kano North Senatorial District, said he remains fully loyal to President Tinubu and will go along with whatever decision the President makes concerning the 2027 elections. He stated that now is not the time for political distractions but rather a time to focus on governance and helping the administration deliver on its promises to Nigerians.
“At this moment, I don’t think it’s necessary to dwell on such issues,” Barau said when asked about calls from political groups urging him to prepare to run as Tinubu’s vice presidential candidate. “President Tinubu has been working tirelessly to reset the country’s direction and steer it towards greater prosperity.”
Barau explained that the President inherited many economic and political challenges, and all well-meaning Nigerians, especially political leaders, should give him full support to fix the system and build a better nation. He added that his relationship with the President goes beyond politics and is based on mutual respect, trust, and shared vision for Nigeria’s future.
“Rather than focusing on politics now, they should redirect that energy to backing the President’s efforts,” Barau said in reference to those calling for him to start preparing for 2027. “When the time for politics arrives, we will cross that bridge. But now, it’s about governance and service to Nigerians.”
The Deputy Senate President further stated that the Tinubu administration has shown courage and commitment in its reform agenda, and everyone in government must support those efforts rather than distract from them with early political conversations. He described the President as his “political father” and expressed deep appreciation for the support he has received from him, especially during his campaign for the Senate and during his emergence as Deputy Senate President.
Barau said, “The President has been kind to me and my people. His support for my Senate bid and the leadership position I now hold in the Senate are part of his generosity. I am proud to work with him and support his government.”
Speaking on the upcoming constitutional review process, Barau said the National Assembly is committed to ensuring that the exercise reflects the voices of Nigerians from all parts of the country. He noted that the zonal hearings will provide citizens the chance to contribute ideas that can strengthen the nation’s democratic institutions and address long-standing structural issues.
He encouraged citizens, civil society groups, traditional leaders, youth organisations, and women’s groups to actively participate in the public hearings, which are being organised across the six geopolitical zones. He said this is one of the most effective ways to shape Nigeria’s future without resorting to street protests or divisive narratives.
The calls for Barau to become Tinubu’s running mate in 2027 have been growing, especially among political groups in the North who see him as a popular and experienced leader with strong grassroots support. However, Barau’s decision to downplay these calls for now has been seen by many observers as a show of maturity and discipline.
Political analysts say Barau’s close working relationship with President Tinubu, his influence in the National Assembly, and his rising political profile make him a strong figure in the current administration. However, with over two years left before the next general elections, most leaders are expected to focus on their present roles rather than campaign activities.
For now, Barau Jibrin has made it clear that his full attention remains on helping President Tinubu succeed and delivering legislative support to the executive arm of government. Whether or not he will be on the 2027 ticket is a decision he insists should wait until the time is right.
