Niger Governor Under Fire for Alleged Land Grab

The Niger State governor, Umar Bago, is facing criticism for allegedly granting a prime land worth over N1 billion to his ally, Shehu Kabiru. The land, which belongs to the Niger State Waterboard, is located directly opposite the Suleja Local Government Secretariat and was meant for public use.

According to reports, the land was granted to Kash Crop Merchants Nigeria Limited, a company owned by Shehu Kabiru, who serves as an official personal assistant to the governor. The company was created in September 2023, just three months after Governor Bago took office, and was granted the land for “Animal Husbandry Service”.

This is not the first time Governor Bago has been embroiled in controversy. In August 2025, he ordered the shutdown of a privately-owned radio station, Badeggi Radio 90.1 FM, accusing it of “anti-peace and treasonable incitement”. The move was widely condemned by media rights groups, who called for the immediate reversal of the decision.

The governor has also been criticized for ordering the arrest of a social media commentator, Isa Mokwa, over posts that criticized the administration’s handling of public resources and appointments. The incident has sparked debates about freedom of expression and the treatment of online activists in the state.

The alleged land grab has raised concerns about the governor’s commitment to transparency and accountability. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the governor will be held accountable for his actions. One thing is certain, however: the people of Niger State deserve better governance, and it’s time for their leaders to prioritize their needs and interests .