Gombe
Governor Yahaya Assures Fairness, Warns Against Political Violence in Gombe
Governor Yahaya Assures Fairness, Warns Against Political Violence in Gombe
By Auwal Ahmad Umar
The governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has assured political parties and aspirants of a level playing field ahead of the 2027 general elections, while warning against violence, lawlessness, and actions capable of threatening the peace of the state.
Mr Inuwa Yahaya gave the assurance during a statewide broadcast on Wednesday as political parties prepare to conduct their primary elections in line with the Electoral Act 2026 and guidelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The governor said the forthcoming political process represents a critical phase in the country’s democratic journey, stressing that peace and stability must remain paramount throughout the exercise.
“As you are all aware, preparations for the 2027 general elections have begun,” he said.
He explained that Section 84(2) of the Electoral Act recognises only two methods for nominating candidates seeking elective offices — direct primaries and consensus arrangements.
According to him, political parties across the country are expected to conclude the process of selecting candidates for various positions this month.
Mr Inuwa Yahaya disclosed that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe initially explored the consensus option through consultations involving the party’s elders and executive members.
He said the effort was largely successful, as many aspirants agreed to support endorsed candidates in order to preserve party unity.
However, he noted that disagreements among some aspirants made total consensus impossible, thereby making direct primaries necessary.
“In the absence of unanimous acceptance of the consensus option, we must proceed with direct primaries in line with the Electoral Act. This is democracy at work,” the governor stated.
He added that direct primaries would provide aspirants with a transparent and fair platform to seek the support of party members.
The governor stressed that his administration would remain neutral and ensure fairness to all political parties and contestants during the primary elections and the 2027 general polls.
Mr Inuwa Yahaya, who is approaching the final year of his second term in office, said preserving peace in the state remains one of his administration’s top priorities.
“The stability of Gombe State is bigger than the ambition of any politician or political party,” he said.
The governor also accused some politicians and “conflict entrepreneurs” of attempting to exploit the political season to create tension and instability in the state.
“There will be zero tolerance for violence, lawlessness and political rascality from any individual or group,” he warned.
According to him, any individual or group found responsible for any breakdown of law and order before, during, or after the primaries would face severe legal consequences regardless of political influence or social status.
Mr Inuwa Yahaya noted that Gombe had remained relatively peaceful since its creation in 1996 despite security challenges affecting parts of the North-east and northern Nigeria.
He attributed the peaceful atmosphere in the state to unity, vigilance, tolerance, and adherence to the rule of law by citizens and leaders.
The governor called on political parties, aspirants, youths, and community leaders to place the interest of the state above personal ambitions and political differences.
He further assured residents that the state government would continue to collaborate with security agencies and other stakeholders to guarantee peaceful conduct of the primaries and the 2027 general elections.
“With your support and prayers, I have no doubt that the upcoming primary elections and subsequent general elections will be conducted in an atmosphere of peace and security,” he added.
