The African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate in Gombe State, Bala Tinka, has provided free fuel to commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators in the state. This initiative was part of activities marking Nigeria's Independence Day. The one-day intervention, which ran from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., was implemented at designated filling stations in Gombe metropolis. This gesture aimed to ease the financial burden on commercial transport operators who have been affected by the rising cost of petrol.
Mr. Tinka announced the initiative during an interview with a local radio station in Gombe. He described the intervention as a modest way of joining Nigerians in celebrating Independence Day while providing relief to people struggling with increased transportation and fuel costs. The free fuel initiative was open to all Okada riders and Keke Napep operators, who were instructed to go to designated filling stations to collect fuel free of charge.
The ADC candidate also outlined a number of policy proposals covering healthcare, agriculture, local contracting, and water supply. He promised free healthcare for children below five years and elderly people aged 70 and above. This, he said, was to ensure that inability to pay medical bills would not prevent vulnerable residents from accessing treatment. Mr. Tinka emphasized that no child should die because their parents cannot afford hospital bills, and no old person should be left to die.
On agriculture, Mr. Tinka said a future ADC administration would review the procurement and distribution of fertilizer, with greater emphasis on local wholesalers and agro-dealers. He argued that purchasing agricultural inputs from businesses operating within the state would keep more money in Gombe and stimulate economic activity. This approach, he believes, would help grow the local economy.
Mr. Tinka also pledged to give qualified indigenous contractors greater opportunities in the execution of government projects. He stated that contracts requiring specialized expertise not available in Gombe could still be awarded outside the state, but competent local professionals would receive preference where they have the capacity to deliver. This move aims to help local experts grow and develop.
The ADC governorship candidate also addressed the persistent water shortages affecting parts of Gombe metropolis and other communities. He said his administration would pursue a lasting solution rather than relying on temporary measures. Mr. Tinka proposed a comprehensive assessment of the causes of the water crisis before implementing measures to address the problem. He emphasized that water is life and that the people of Gombe have suffered for too long without access to it.
Mr. Tinka emerged as the ADC governorship candidate for the 2027 election after the party's primary held in May 2026. He subsequently called on residents of Gombe State to support the ADC, promising an inclusive administration focused on improving the welfare of citizens if elected. The candidate's initiatives and policy proposals aim to bring relief and development to the people of Gombe State.
Key points
- The ADC governorship candidate provided free fuel to commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators on Nigeria's Independence Day.
- Mr. Tinka outlined policy proposals covering healthcare, agriculture, local contracting, and water supply.
- The candidate promised free healthcare for children below five years and elderly people aged 70 and above.
