Blueprint.ngcorrespondent from Gombe writes about an impending battle for the soul of Gombe Central senatorial district by two competing interests- one plotting the change of a status quo and the other angling to retain it.
The race for the 2027 senatorial seat in Gombe Central is already gathering momentum, with fresh political tensions emerging from Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area over the future of serving Senator Mohammad Danjuma Goje.
Beginning of a plot and resistance
The development follows reports that some politicians from Yamaltu/Deba recently approached Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, urging him to back the emergence of a new candidate from the area to replace Senator Goje in the next election cycle.
But in a swift and strongly worded response, a coalition of residents, stakeholders and loyalists of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Yamaltu/Deba, rejected the move, insisting that the push to unseat Goje is ill-timed, undemocratic and not reflective of the broader will of the people.
In a detailed memorandum addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through the APC National Chairman, the group declared its “firm and unwavering support” for the continuation of Senator Goje in the National Assembly, citing his experience, legislative influence and track record of service.
The group warned against what it described as “political engineering driven by narrow interests,” arguing that representation in a democracy must be determined by competence, performance and the popular mandate of the electorate—not pressure from local political blocs.
“Democracy thrives on representation, experience and the will of the people. Any attempt to sideline a proven and widely accepted leader undermines the very foundation of democratic governance,” the memorandum stated.
The unfolding situation has exposed early fault lines within political circles in Yamaltu/Deba, where competing interests are beginning to shape permutations ahead of the 2027 elections.
Reasons for differing stands
While proponents of change are said to be advocating for a power shift within the local government, supporters of Senator Goje insist that continuity in the Senate remains a strategic necessity for Gombe Central.
They argued that lawmaking is not a trial-and-error process, but one that benefits from experience, institutional memory and established networks—qualities they say Senator Goje has built over the years.
“Continuity in leadership is not a privilege; it is a strategic advantage. Senator Goje’s seniority and established influence guarantee greater access to federal opportunities and stronger representation in national decision-making,” the group said.
They further stressed that there is no constitutional provision restricting how long a legislator can serve, cautioning against introducing informal zoning arrangements that could override the wishes of voters.
Beyond legality, the supporters pointed to what they described as Goje’s “visible impact” across Gombe Central, noting that his years in public service—both as governor and senator—have translated into tangible development outcomes and strengthened the constituency’s voice at the national level.
“Distinguished Senator Mohammad Danjuma Goje has consistently demonstrated that leadership is about service. His experience is not just an asset—it is a resource that must not be discarded at a critical time in our nation’s development,” the memorandum added.
Concomitant actions, inactions
Although Governor Inuwa Yahaya has yet to publicly respond to the reported appeal by some
Yamaltu/Deba politicians, the issue is already generating quiet but intense debate within the APC, with analysts predicting that it could shape alliances and political alignments ahead of the primaries.
For many observers, the unfolding contest is more than a local disagreement—it is a test of influence, loyalty and grassroots strength within the ruling party in Gombe state.
The Yamaltu/Deba stakeholders, however, remain resolute. They reaffirmed their loyalty to the APC and support for President Tinubu’s administration, while urging party leaders to “listen to the voice of the people” and uphold democratic principles.
“We strongly believe that sustaining capable and experienced legislators like Senator Goje is key to ensuring stability, continuity and progress—not just for Gombe Central, but for Nigeria as a whole,” the group declared.
As political activities gradually intensify ahead of 2027, the battle for Gombe Central appears set to become one of the most closely watched contests in the state—pitting continuity against calls for change, and experience against emerging ambitions.
