A fresh controversy is brewing in Niger State as Governor Umar Bago has been accused of allocating a prime government property—valued at more than ₦1 billion—to a close associate, Shehu Kabiru. Jamflash gathered that the land originally belonged to the Niger State Waterboard, an essential agency responsible for water supply across the state.
Prime Waterboard Property Allegedly Redirected to Governor’s Ally
The land in question sits directly opposite the Suleja Local Government Secretariat, making it one of the most strategic parcels of land in the area. According to documents seen by Jamflash, the land already appeared on a Site Map as available for sale, despite being legally assigned to the Waterboard.
Further investigation shows that the property was “granted” to Kash Crop Merchants Nigeria Limited, a company registered in September 2023, just three months after Governor Bago assumed office. The company was allegedly registered for “Animal Husbandry Service.”
A Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) search reveals that the company is entirely owned by Shehu Kabiru, who serves as an “Official Personal Assistant to the Governor, without portfolio.” He is listed as the sole director and shareholder, with an address in Kontagora, Niger State.
One official document reviewed states:
“The company with one director, who also doubles as the shareholder, is ‘granted’ a land sized over one hectare worth over a billion.”
Governor Bago’s Administration Faces Growing Criticism
This allegation is not the first time Governor Bago has been linked to questions about governance practices. His administration recently faced public outrage over its approach to media relations and freedom of expression.
In August 2025, he ordered the shutdown of Badeggi Radio 90.1 FM, a private station in Minna. The governor accused the station of “anti-peace and treasonable incitement” after it aired three programmes highlighting alleged government failures. The move sparked debates about press freedom and transparency in the state.
U.S. Lawmakers Condemn Trump’s Threats Against Nigeria
Meanwhile, on the international scene, two senior members of the United States Congress—Gregory W. Meeks and Sara Jacobs—have sharply criticized former President Donald Trump for making threats to cut off aid and possibly take military action against Nigeria over perceived religious persecution.
Both lawmakers described Trump’s remarks as “reckless and irresponsible,” stressing that Nigeria’s security challenges are more complex than a religious conflict.
They argued that:
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Farmer–herder clashes are often driven by land pressure and resource scarcity, not religion.
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Terrorist groups in northern Nigeria attack both Muslims and Christians.
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President Bola Tinubu has taken steps to improve security and interfaith relations.
The lawmakers also warned that cutting U.S. aid would only harm critical humanitarian and development programmes that help prevent further instability in the country.
Conclusion
The allegations surrounding Governor Umar Bago’s land allocation add yet another layer of tension to his administration. As more documents surface and criticism grows, many Niger State residents are watching closely to see how the government responds.
Jamflash will continue to monitor and report developments as they unfold.
