The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress in Gombe State, Bala-Bello Tinka, has made a promise to provide free fuel to commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators if elected governor in the 2027 election. This move is part of his administration’s measures to reduce the economic hardship faced by commercial transport operators following the removal of the fuel subsidy. Tinka made the promise during an interview with a local radio station in Gombe.
As part of his immediate intervention, Tinka announced a one-day free fuel distribution for commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators in Gombe to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary. The operators would be able to collect the fuel at designated filling stations across the state between 6am and 6pm on October 1, 2026. This gesture would allow them to mark the Independence anniversary without having to spend money on fuel for the day.
Tinka explained that commercial transport operators had been among those severely affected by the removal of the fuel subsidy. He noted that the free-fuel initiative would be sustained if he emerged governor, describing it as part of the palliatives his administration would provide for commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators. This move aims to alleviate the suffering of these operators and support their livelihood.
Beyond the fuel intervention, the ADC candidate outlined other policies he said would guide his administration if elected. Tinka promised free medical treatment for children below five years and residents above 70 years. This policy would ensure that children and elderly residents are not denied medical care because of their inability to pay hospital bills.
On agriculture, Tinka proposed a different approach to fertiliser procurement, saying his administration would source the commodity from local wholesalers instead of purchasing directly from manufacturers. This arrangement would ensure that money spent on fertiliser remained within Gombe and circulated among local businesses, boosting the local economy and creating employment opportunities.
Tinka also pledged to give preference to indigenous contractors in the execution of government projects. Contractors from outside the state would only be engaged when the required technical expertise was unavailable in Gombe. This move aims to patronise local experts, help them grow, and create more job opportunities within the state.
The ADC candidate addressed the recurring water shortage in Gombe metropolis and other parts of the state, promising that his administration would pursue a permanent solution to the problem. A comprehensive study would be commissioned to determine the root causes of the water crisis and provide a lasting solution, ensuring that residents have access to this essential resource.
Key points
- ADC governorship candidate Bala-Bello Tinka promises free fuel for commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators in Gombe State if elected in 2027.
- Tinka outlines additional policies, including free medical treatment for children and elderly residents, and a new approach to fertiliser procurement.
- The candidate promises to address the recurring water shortage in Gombe metropolis and other parts of the state with a comprehensive study and permanent solution.
