2027: Goje’s Supporters Reject Moves to Replace Him in Gombe Central

2027: Goje’s Supporters Reject Moves to Replace Him in Gombe Central

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

Political tensions are beginning to build in Gombe Central Senatorial District as supporters of former Governor and serving Senator, Mohammad Danjuma Goje, drawn largely from Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area, have rejected moves by some politicians seeking to replace him ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The development follows reports that certain political actors from Yamaltu/Deba recently approached Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, urging him to support the emergence of another candidate from the area to take over the senatorial seat currently occupied by Senator Goje.

However, in what appears to be a counter-position from within the same local government, a coalition of residents, APC loyalists and stakeholders from Yamaltu/Deba has declared strong support for the senator’s continuity in the National Assembly, insisting that competence, experience and the will of the people should prevail.

The position of the group was made public on Friday when Dr. Newton Moses read the memorandum to journalists, declaring that the people of Yamaltu/Deba were united in their support for Senator Goje’s return to the Senate.

According to the memorandum, Senator Goje remains a seasoned lawmaker whose continued presence in the Senate would further benefit Gombe Central and strengthen its voice in national affairs.

Dr. Moses said the call to replace the senator should not be driven by narrow political interests, but by a fair assessment of performance, leadership capacity and democratic legitimacy.

He noted that continuity in the National Assembly offers significant advantages, especially in a system where legislative experience, seniority and strategic relationships often translate into stronger influence and increased access to developmental opportunities.

“Continuity in leadership, especially in a legislative environment, is not merely desirable — it is essential. Lawmaking is a complex and evolving process that benefits immensely from institutional memory, strategic relationships and procedural mastery,” the memorandum stated.

The supporters emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution does not impose any tenure limits on lawmakers, stressing that the decision on representation must ultimately reflect the wishes of the electorate rather than informal political arrangements.

They further noted that Senator Goje’s long-standing experience in governance and lawmaking places him in a unique position to continue advancing the interests of Gombe Central at the national level.

“Distinguished Senator Mohammad Danjuma Goje stands as a towering figure whose years of legislative experience have translated into tangible dividends of democracy for Gombe Central and beyond,” the group added.

The emerging division within Yamaltu/Deba highlights early political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, with competing interests beginning to shape the future of representation in the senatorial district.

While Governor Inuwa Yahaya has yet to publicly respond to the reported request by some politicians, the development is already generating conversations within the APC and among political observers in the state.

Supporters of Senator Goje, however, remain firm, maintaining that his track record, accessibility and established influence in national politics make a strong case for continuity.

“By returning Senator Goje to the Senate, Gombe Central stands to gain even more. His seniority and established influence will ensure greater access to federal opportunities, increased developmental projects and stronger representation in critical national decisions,” the group said.

They reaffirmed their loyalty to the APC and their support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while calling on party leaders and stakeholders to respect the will of the people and support Senator Goje’s return in 2027.

As political activities gradually intensify, the unfolding debate in Yamaltu/Deba may shape one of the earliest and most significant contests ahead of the next general election in Gombe State.