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Gombe 2023 Proved It: No Governor Owns the Votes

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By Ibrahim Salisu Hinna

Recent political defections in Gombe State have reignited debate over a long-held assumption in Nigerian politics — that a sitting governor automatically controls the voting direction of the electorate.

The conversation resurfaced following developments in the state’s House of Representatives representation, where two lawmakers elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

2023 Elections Told a Different Story

In the 2023 general elections, Gombe State presented a striking political contrast. Although the state government was controlled by the APC, five out of the six seats in the House of Representatives were won by PDP candidates.

The outcome was widely interpreted as proof that voters in Gombe could make independent choices, separating state-level leadership from federal legislative representation. Analysts noted at the time that incumbency at the state level did not automatically translate into dominance at the federal polls.

The results effectively challenged the popular belief that governors possess the political machinery to determine electoral outcomes across all tiers.

Wave of Defections

However, the political landscape has since shifted. Two PDP lawmakers representing Yamaltu/Deba and Dukku/Nafada federal constituencies have now defected to the APC. Speculation is mounting that the remaining three PDP lawmakers may also follow suit.

Under Nigeria’s democratic framework, defection by elected officials is lawful, particularly when justified by internal party crises or strategic political alignment. Lawmakers often argue that moving to the ruling party enhances their ability to attract projects and better represent their constituents.

Yet beyond the legal provisions lies a deeper political and moral question — the issue of mandate.

Mandate and Voter Intent

Observers argue that when voters elect opposition candidates in a state governed by another party, it is often a deliberate act of balancing power. Such choices may reflect dissatisfaction, strategic preference, or a desire for broader representation.

A post-election change of party platform, critics say, can raise concerns about whether the original mandate is being preserved in spirit.

The 2023 results in Gombe were seen as a clear signal that voters were capable of distinguishing between party structures and individual candidates. The electorate demonstrated that votes are not automatically transferred based on the governor’s party affiliation.

Power Is Dynamic

Political analysts note that defections are often driven by shifting power dynamics. Political alignment tends to gravitate toward perceived centres of influence. However, power in Nigeria’s political system remains fluid.

Today’s ruling party at the state or federal level may not retain that status indefinitely. Political dominance is neither static nor permanent.

For the remaining PDP lawmakers in Gombe, the unfolding developments present a defining moment. While political strategy is a reality, public perception also matters in an era of growing political awareness.

Constituents, many argue, are increasingly attentive to political movements and may weigh such decisions in future elections.

Faith and Politics

Gombe, like much of Nigeria, is deeply rooted in faith. Many residents believe that leadership is ultimately determined by divine will. While political parties provide platforms for contestation, destiny, in the eyes of believers, transcends party structures.

In that sense, electoral success is viewed not only as a product of political calculation but also as a reflection of divine decree.

A Lesson for the Political Class

The unfolding events in Gombe offer a broader lesson in democratic accountability. Governors do not manufacture votes, and no party permanently owns political power.

The 2023 House of Representatives elections demonstrated that authority ultimately rests with the electorate. As political alignments continue to evolve, one principle remains constant — the people decide.

And in the final analysis, power belongs neither to governors nor to parties, but to the voters of Gombe State.

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Politics

₦30 Million Lifeline: NANS Challenges Politicians as Attajiri Empowers Youths, Women in Gombe

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By Our Correspondent

In a powerful demonstration of grassroots development and youth empowerment, the Attajiri Development Foundation has disbursed over ₦30 million to 60 beneficiaries across Balanga and Biliri Local Government Areas of Gombe State, providing each recipient with ₦500,000 to boost their businesses and livelihoods.

The intervention, which targeted youths and women, has been widely applauded as a bold step toward promoting entrepreneurship, self-reliance, and sustainable economic growth within local communities. Beneficiaries were carefully selected based on their commitment to enterprise and readiness to expand their ventures, reflecting a strategic approach to ensuring long-term impact.

Reacting to the initiative, the Coordinator of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone E, Muazu Hina, commended the effort and described it as both “remarkable and instructive.” He noted that the empowerment came from Hon. Alfred John Attajiri, an individual not currently occupying any public office, making the gesture even more significant.

Muazu Hina challenged politicians holding public office to rise to their responsibilities and deliver meaningful dividends of democracy to the people they represent. According to him, Attajiri’s intervention serves as a wake-up call to elected leaders who have access to public resources but have yet to make comparable impact in their constituencies.

“This act of generosity and commitment to grassroots development clearly reflects true leadership, compassion, and a vision for community growth,” Hina stated, adding that such initiatives are critical at a time when many young Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship and limited opportunities.

The student body further called on politicians, philanthropists, and business leaders across the country to emulate Attajiri’s example by investing more in youth and student empowerment, emphasizing that national development is closely tied to the wellbeing and productivity of young people.

In a statement, Hon. Alfred John Attajiri reaffirmed his commitment to initiatives that uplift lives and foster shared prosperity. He stressed that empowering youth and women remains central to building resilient communities and driving inclusive development.

“This is not just about financial support; it is about creating opportunities, restoring dignity, and encouraging productivity among our people,” he said.

The foundation noted that the empowerment programme is part of a broader, ongoing effort to deliver tangible change at the grassroots level, with more interventions planned in the future.

As reactions continue to pour in, many observers see the initiative as a model for people-oriented leadership—one that prioritizes impact, accountability, and sustainable development over rhetoric.

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2027: ADC Moves to Pick Presidential Candidate by Consensus

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By Our Political Reporter

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) says it is considering adopting a consensus approach in selecting its presidential candidate for the 2027 general election.

This was disclosed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, during an appearance on One-on-One, a programme on Arise TV on Saturday.

Abdullahi said the party is weighing options between direct primaries and consensus, noting that indirect primaries are no longer applicable following amendments to the Electoral Act.

“We are trying as much as possible to adopt the consensus approach because that is the least costly for us. For us, the best-case scenario is to be able to engineer consensus, and that’s what we are working on,” he said.

He further argued that the cohesion of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is largely tied to its current leadership under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“If you take power out of APC, the party may struggle to remain cohesive. Post-Tinubu, there could be significant internal challenges,” he added.

The ADC spokesperson also claimed that the ruling party is already showing signs of anxiety ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Abdullahi maintained that in a free and fair election, the APC would face stiff opposition from Nigerians.

“They should ordinarily be confident, given that they are in power. However, there are indications of unease, suggesting that the political landscape ahead of 2027 may be highly competitive,” he said.

Ahead of the 2027 elections, the ADC has positioned itself as a major opposition platform through a coalition of prominent politicians. Some notable figures reportedly linked with interest in the party’s presidential ticket include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, among others.

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Kwankwaso Dumps NNPP, Signals Major Political Realignment Ahead of 2027

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By Our Political Reporter

A former Governor of Kano State and 2023 presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has officially resigned from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), in a move that could significantly reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of future elections.

In a press statement dated March 29, 2026, Kwankwaso announced his resignation from the party with immediate effect, bringing an end to his role as the party’s National Leader.

He described the decision as a difficult one, noting the “honour and privilege” he had in serving as the NNPP’s presidential candidate during the 2023 general elections. According to him, his departure was driven by the need for “strategic realignment” in response to the evolving political climate in the country.

“Considering the current trajectory of the nation’s political landscape, which calls for strategic realignment, I have found it necessary to identify with another political platform that offers the best opportunity to effectively change the nation,” he stated.

Kwankwaso expressed appreciation to the party leadership, particularly the National Chairman, Ajuji Ahmed, as well as members of the National Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and party executives at all levels for their support during his time in the NNPP.

He also extended gratitude to supporters of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, acknowledging their loyalty and commitment to the party’s vision over the years.

Despite his exit, Kwankwaso emphasized the importance of continued collaboration among political actors committed to national development, expressing optimism about working together in pursuit of a more prosperous Nigeria.

Political analysts say the resignation may trigger fresh alignments within the opposition bloc, particularly as preparations gradually build toward the 2027 general elections.

While Kwankwaso did not disclose his next political destination, his statement strongly suggests an imminent move to another platform, a development expected to generate significant reactions across the country’s political space.

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