MINNA: The Niger State Government has dismissed claims that Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, popularly known as the Farmer Governor, had suggested selling the state, insisting that his remarks were taken out of context.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, in a statement on Sunday, expressed concern over what he described as deliberate mischief by those who chose to interpret the governor’s comments literally.
He said the governor’s remark was a figurative expression of his passion and commitment to addressing the challenges facing the state, not a declaration of intent to dispose of its assets.
“Most people interpreted the statement literally and failed to grasp the intended meaning. The governor was only expressing his passion and unwavering commitment to do everything possible within his power to tackle the defining challenges facing the state,” Ibrahim explained.
The governor’s spokesman faulted what he called the “negative imagination” of those fueling unnecessary debates on social and conventional media platforms, stressing that Bago’s focus remains on service to humanity.
“All well-meaning residents of the state are proud of the governor’s pragmatic approach to the growth and development of Niger State. The government will not be distracted by those who, consciously or unconsciously, interpret his statement out of context,” he added.
Ibrahim maintained that Governor Bago remains steadfast in pursuing his administration’s “New Niger Agenda,” which, according to him, reflects the collective aspirations of the people.
