APC Stakeholders Back Goje’s 2027 Senate Return, Rally Behind Tinubu

APC Stakeholders Back Goje’s 2027 Senate Return, Rally Behind Tinubu

By Auwal Ahmad Umar 

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe Central Senatorial District have thrown their weight behind the return of Senator Mohammad Danjuma Goje to the Senate in 2027, citing his experience and track record in public service.

The endorsement, which cuts across Akko and Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Areas, also included support for the second-term bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The show of support gathered momentum earlier this month when residents of Yamaltu/Deba, in large numbers, publicly declared their backing for the former governor’s return to the National Assembly. Speaking on behalf of the 11 wards in the area, Dr. Newton Moses said the people were united in their decision.

“We have carefully assessed his contributions and believe he still has much to offer. Our people are firmly behind his return in 2027,” he said.

The position was reinforced on Tuesday when APC leaders and stakeholders from Akko Local Government Area held a meeting in Gombe, where they aligned with their Yamaltu/Deba counterparts and reaffirmed their support for Senator Goje’s continued representation.

The meeting, described as strategic, followed consultations triggered by recent political engagements within the state, including interactions between local leaders and Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, Prof. Mustapha Babawuro Yahaya of the Federal University Kashere said the endorsement reflected the broader sentiment among constituents.

“Democracy thrives on the will of the people and credible leadership. There is no constitutional barrier to legislative continuity, and where a representative has demonstrated competence, the electorate has every right to retain such leadership,” he said.

He added that Senator Goje’s years in public office had translated into “tangible development, effective advocacy, and strong representation” for the district.

According to him, there is widespread grassroots support for the lawmaker across Akko and the wider Gombe Central zone.

“This is not just political rhetoric. The support is visible and consistent. People believe in his capacity to deliver,” he said.

The stakeholders also stressed the importance of experience in legislative work, arguing that continuity in the National Assembly enhances effectiveness.

“Law-making requires institutional knowledge and established networks. Senator Goje’s seniority places him in a position to attract federal projects and defend the interests of the constituency more effectively,” the group said.

They noted that the ongoing economic reforms in the country demand experienced lawmakers who can navigate complex policy environments and advocate for their people.

The group, however, raised concerns over the APC’s performance in the 2023 general elections in the state, pointing out that the party lost two of the three senatorial seats and the majority of House of Representatives positions.

“The only bright spot was Gombe Central, where Senator Goje secured victory alongside a House of Representatives member from his area,” they said.

They further argued that internal party dynamics at the time may have contributed to the outcome, urging greater inclusiveness and unity going forward.

While acknowledging recent political developments in the state, the stakeholders called for transparency and adherence to democratic principles in decisions regarding future representation.

“Leadership choices must reflect the genuine will of the people, free from imposition or undue interference,” they said.

The group said it had formally communicated its position to the APC leadership through its national chairman, urging the party to respect the voice of the electorate.

Reaffirming their stance, the stakeholders insisted that retaining Senator Goje would guarantee stability and sustained development for Gombe Central.

“Our support is rooted in conviction. We believe his continued presence in the Senate will bring more opportunities and strengthen representation for our people,” they added.