ADC gubernatorial candidate Makanta denies N3bn contract fraud allegations, calling them fabricated.

Idris Makanta, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) gubernatorial candidate for Niger State, has denied any involvement in a purported N3 billion rice‑contract fraud.

In a statement released by his media office on Monday, Makanta called the allegation “fabricated and false.”

Earlier reports had suggested that the candidate was being pressured to withdraw from the race because of the alleged fraud.

Makanta said the accusations were aimed at undermining his growing popularity in the state. “Their efforts have, however, failed woefully,” he added.

He clarified, “For the avoidance of doubt, there is no ‘rice contract fraud’ involving Malam Idris Usman Makanta and the Niger State Government or any other institution whatsoever. We challenge the purveyors of this falsehood to provide credible evidence to substantiate their claims.”

Makanta also stated that he is not under any pressure to withdraw his candidacy for the ADC ticket ahead of the 2027 general election.

“We wish to reaffirm that there is no pressure from any quarter for Malam Idris Usman Makanta to withdraw from the race. He remains optimistic and confident of securing the ADC ticket.”