APC Primaries: Gombe Governor Yahaya Warns Politicians Against Violence

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has declared that he will not tolerate any actions that could threaten peace in the state ahead of the upcoming primary elections, urging politicians and their supporters to avoid violence.

During a statewide broadcast on Wednesday, the governor explained that the decision came after disagreements among some aspirants, despite efforts by the APC Elders’ Committee and the party’s State Executive Committee to build consensus around endorsed candidates.

He noted that weeks ago, with the backing of the APC Elders’ Committee and the State Executive Committee, members of the APC made a vigorous attempt to pursue a consensus option.

Former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, rejected the consensus arrangement that favored Dr Jamilu Isiyaku Gwamna and Senator Muhammadu Danjuma Goje of Gombe Central District, and protested the decision that excluded him after 16 years of service.

Governor Yahaya said, “The party will now proceed with direct primaries in accordance with Section 87(2) of the Electoral Act.”

He added that he will enter the final year of his administration on 29 May and that preserving peace and stability in the state remains his top priority as political activities intensify.

Yahaya stressed that the conduct of party primaries is critical because of its implications for democracy, social cohesion and internal stability in the state, warning that security agencies will not tolerate attempts by politicians or their supporters to use the primaries to create trouble.

He said there are unpatriotic politicians and conflict entrepreneurs who seek to hide behind the upcoming primary elections to stoke chaos and conflict.

The governor further warned that anyone found culpable in disrupting public peace before, during or after the primaries will face the full weight of the law, assuring that those found wanting will not go unpunished.

He called on political stakeholders to put the interest of the state above personal ambitions, reminding residents that Gombe has remained relatively peaceful since its creation in 1996, despite security challenges confronting parts of the North‑East.