Gombe State is gearing up for the 2027 general election, with various factions vying for control and influence. The election is expected to test the durability of godfatherism, party authority, and the ability of established actors to convert personal influence into electoral support. At the center of the contest is a struggle for succession, with multiple stakeholders competing for positions of power.
In a significant development, Pantami emerged victorious in the PDP's fresh governorship primary on September 29, polling 2,054 votes. His victory came after a disputed process was nullified by the Federal High Court, and he defeated Khamisu Mailantarki and Usman Aliyu Garry. As a former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Pantami brings considerable visibility to the contest, but faces the challenge of converting primary support into a broader coalition.
The APC has also fielded a candidate, Jamilu Isiyaku Gwamna, who emerged after Governor Inuwa Yahaya's consultations with party stakeholders. Gwamna's emergence is seen as an attempt to sustain Yahaya's political legacy. However, Gwamna must mobilize support independently while maintaining relationships that made his emergence possible. Meanwhile, tensions have risen within the APC in Gombe Central, where Goje's exclusion from the senatorial ticket has sparked a public dispute.
Goje, a former governor, lost the ticket to retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Mohammed Ahmed Deba, sparking a disagreement over competing interests and rotation between Akko and Yamaltu/Deba. Goje has publicly declared his continued support for the APC but has urged supporters not to vote for certain candidates, describing his treatment as a betrayal. This development highlights the changing nature of political mentorship and the redistribution of authority between established figures and emerging politicians.
The election also features a contest between Dankwambo and Inuwa in Gombe North, with both vying for the senatorial seat. Their rivalry dates back to the 2015 governorship election, and the outcome could have significant implications for the state's political landscape. Additionally, the ADC's governorship candidate, Alhaji Bala Bello Tinka, offers a third-party option that could attract dissatisfied members and voters seeking an alternative to the two dominant parties.
Gombe South is expected to play a crucial role in the election, with the APC's Jerry Damara and the PDP's Anthony Siyako Yaro competing for the senatorial seat. The zone's distinct political interests and development concerns require more than symbolic representation, and the choice of running mates will attract significant attention. Ultimately, the outcome of the election will depend on how support is distributed statewide and how well candidates consolidate their constituencies.
The election campaign is unfolding within a competitive communication environment, with social media playing a significant role in shaping public narratives. The real test will be whether these narratives translate into credible responses to the challenges confronting the people of Gombe. The significance of the election lies in the changing relationship between political influence and political authority, with various stakeholders vying for control and influence.
Key points
- Pantami's victory in the PDP's fresh governorship primary has set the stage for a competitive election in Gombe State.
- Goje's exclusion from the APC senatorial ticket has exposed tensions within the party and highlighted the changing nature of political mentorship.
- The election outcome will depend on how well candidates consolidate their constituencies and distribute support statewide.
