FCT Minister Denies Ties to Alleged Appointment of Seven Advisers

Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has denied any involvement in the appointment of seven advisers that were reportedly announced by Bin Usman Rano, who claimed to be her media aide.

In a statement issued on Monday by her Special Assistant on Media, Austine Elemue, the minister’s office said the appointments did not originate from her office.

Elemue clarified that he is the sole authorised media aide permitted to issue official statements on behalf of the minister.

The statement added that Rano is not a staff member of the minister’s office but is associated with the Dr Mariya Support Group, a political organisation that backs President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Any appointments, designations, announcements or authorisations issued by Mr Bin Usman Rano are strictly related to the affairs of the support group and have no connection whatsoever with the Office of the Honourable Minister of State, FCT, or the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA),” the statement read.

Rano had reportedly announced the appointment of seven aides over the weekend, covering areas such as media, protocol, student affairs, youth and sports, religious affairs, and special duties.

The minister’s office urged members of the public, media organisations and government agencies to rely only on official channels for information relating to her office.

The statement also reaffirmed Dr Mahmoud’s commitment to transparency, accountability and effective communication in carrying out her responsibilities.