Chalya Shagaya, a senior special assistant to President Bola Tinubu, has reacted to posters linking her to a possible bid for the Langtang North/Langtang South in the House of Representatives, raising questions about whether she is planning to contest in 2027.
The seat is currently occupied by Vincent Bulus of the All Progressives Congress (APC), a first-term member representing the constituency in Nigeria’s lower chamber.
In a statement addressed to the Tarok people of Plateau State and posted on Instagram on Sunday, Shagaya thanked youths and elders for projecting her name but said she is not currently considering running for elective office.
“I sincerely appreciate the youths and elders of the Tarok nation for the confidence shown in projecting my name for the 2027 House of Representatives. This gesture reflects a deep yearning for representation that truly serves our people,” she said.
She added that the desire for stronger representation among the Tarok people was valid.
“For too long, the Tarok people have insisted on being heard not out of ambition, but from lived experiences of being underserved and underrepresented. That insistence is valid and deserves respect,” she said.
Shagaya also stated that public office should not be driven by personal ambition.
“Public office must never be driven by personal desire. It must come from consensus, readiness, and a clear capacity to deliver impact. When and if I choose to step in, it will be with intention and responsibility,” she said.
She noted that her attention remains on her current responsibilities as an aide to the president.
“For now, my full focus remains on the mandate entrusted to me by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, contributing meaningfully to the Renewed Hope Agenda. A pursuit of elective office is not within my present consideration,” she said.
Shagaya said she remains committed to supporting local government empowerment, the development of Plateau State and national progress.
“I remain committed to advocating for the empowerment of our local governments, the development of Plateau State, and the progress of our nation. Leadership extends beyond elections; it lives in service, advocacy, and principled action,” she said.
She also disclosed that consultations were ongoing across communities.
“Consultations across communities continue to ensure alignment with the true aspirations of our people. The Tarok nation deserves dignity, visibility, and progress that is felt, not promised. I remain steadfast in that commitment,” she said.
Shagaya concluded by saying she would make a public declaration if she decides to run for office.
“If and when I decide to contest for public office, I shall declare so myself publicly,” she said.
Shagaya signed the statement as senior special assistant to the president on entrepreneurship development under the communications, innovation and digital economy portfolio.
