Politics
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Senator Danjuma Goje and the Blame Game in Gombe
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Senator Danjuma Goje and the Blame Game in Gombe
By: James Bwala
Last Friday former governor of Gombe state and Senator representing Gombe Central, Danjuma Goje and Governor Inuwa Yahaya have robbed each other’s shoulders with the blood of the innocent when their supporters clashed in Gombe to please their paid masters.
While Governor Inuwa Yahaya was said to rely on his executive powers to gather support of the party youth leader, His ADC and a driver to lead the battle against Goje, the Senator was said to have awake his dreaded thugs popularly called “Yankalare” for the clash that left five people dead.
Barely hours after the clash, Senator Danjuma Goje’s daughter, Hussaina, on Saturday resigned as the state’s Commissioner for Environment and Forest Resources, in protest after suspected political thugs assaulted her father.
In a press statement she made available to journalists in Gombe last week Saturday, Ms Goje said her resignation was a personal decision.
“Today, Saturday 6th of November, I wish to inform the general public and media organisations that I, Dr Husaina Goje, has tendered my formal resignation, from my position as Commissioner for Environment and Forest Resources to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, effective today.

“I also wish to inform that my resignation was made based on my personal reasons. With this I wish to show my appreciation for the opportunity given to me by His Excellency the executive governor to serve as a member of his executive council in this administration.”
On Friday, the convoy of her father, Mr Goje, was attacked by suspected political thugs while the senator was on his way to the state capital to attend a wedding.
According to residents who witnessed the incident, the suspected thugs blocked the Gombe-Bauchi highway near the International Conference Centre in Gombe and set bonfires on the road.
Mr Goje’s media aide, Lilian Nworie, in a statement she issued after the incident in Gombe, said Mr Goje accused the aide-de-camp of the governor of organising the blockade and attack on his convoy.
“He arrived Gombe from Abuja, via Gombe Airport in Lawanti, peacefully until the governor’s aides blocked the road,” the statement said.
“The distinguished senator’s trip was peaceful until when the governor’s aides, including his aide-de-camp and his driver, blocked the road. For two hours, they unleashed terror on Senator Goje and those in his convoy.
“It is unfortunate that one life was lost and many cars vandalised, including the Senator’s vehicle. They smashed the windscreen. All efforts to make the governor’s aide-de-camp remove the blockade yielded no result as he insisted that he got instruction from above that the former governor should not be allowed into the town,” the media aide said in the statement.
Reacting to the incident, the state government said the former governor “caused a breach of peace in the state capital with his visit to the state.”
In a press statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Julius Ishaya, the government accused Mr Goje of mobilising and arming thugs from various LGAs under the pretext that his supporters were accompanying him from the airport into the state capital.
“Recall that during the last Eid el-Kabir Sallah celebration, the same person sponsored some thugs that threw caution into the wind and went on a rampage, leading to the loss of two lives. Also, just last week at Deba in Yamaltu Deba LGA, the same scenario played out at the instance of the Senator.
“It is sad that Goje has not left his old ways and is bent on bringing back his brainchild (Kalare) to unleash mayhem and bug the peaceful atmosphere of Gombe State.
“Gombe state has been witnessing relative peace and harmony due largely to the determination and avowed commitment of Governor Inuwa Yahaya in that direction and therefore the government would not stand by and watch desperate politicians unleash terror and violence on innocent citizens to the extent of getting people killed.
“While sympathising with the families of the victims, Government commends the security agencies for their timely intervention in bringing the ugly situation under control.
“His Excellency, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, as the Chief Security Officer of the State, will not renege on his responsibilities and therefore will do everything necessary to protect the lives and property of the citizenry. The government will make sure that perpetrators of the unfortunate act, no matter how highly placed, are brought to book,” the statement said.
Mr Goje and the governor are members of the same ruling All Progressives Congress, which took over the state from the People’s Democratic Party at the 2019 general elections. But politicians in the state said the fight between Governor Inuwa Yahaya and Senator Danjuma Goje dated back to 2011 when Goje who was said to have brought Inuwa Yahaya into the polity to succeed him later dumped Inuwa Yahaya for Dankwambo.
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Following the clash last Friday, the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) called for the suspension of Senator Goje from the party.
Goje, who was called in Gombe during his government as ’emperor’ due to his links to many crises, was alleged to be behind the establishment of the deadly gang called ‘ yankalere’.

Dr. Abubakar Ibrahim, spokesman for APC Stakeholders in Gombe state said that Governor Inuwa Yahaya was never accused of any criminal tendencies from childhood until today.
“Governor Yahaya has been a peacemaker and one who sacrificed himself to offer the best for the good people of Gombe and Nigeria at large,’ he said.
The Stakeholders warned Senator Danjuma Goje against his desperate move to compromise peace in the state and throw the administration of governor Yahaya into chaos for his selfish interest.
He asked “Why will Goje recruit the youth into thuggery and drug abuse instead of using his political office to empower them to better our society?”.
The party according to him has given Senator Danjuma Goje one week ultimatum to tender an apology to the party and residents of the state for the violent clash masterminded by his sponsored political thugs.
But in what looks like his reaction to current issues in Gombe, Senator Danjuma Goje, has written to the Inspector General of Police, Alkali Baba; Director General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi; and Attorney General of Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, over alleged assassination attempt on his life and his personal Assistant, Adamu Manga, by the Aide-De-Camp and Chief Security Officer of Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Superintendent of Police Zulaidaini Abba and Sani Bajoga respectively.
Goje’s petition to the DSS boss, IGP and AGF, written by his Lawyer, VC Nwadike, was dated November 8, 2021.
The petition, already received in the offices of those petitioned, called for investigation into the matter with aim of bringing the Officers involved to justice by prosecuting them after disciplinary action had been taken against them.
The Service Number of the ADC was given as AP/No: 118814 and that of the CSO: AP/No: 57675.
The petition reads: “That on the 5th day of November, 2021, our client came into Gombe through the Gombe International Airport at about 10:30 hours, to attend the wedding ceremony of his relative and some of his constituent supporters and admirers came to the airport to welcome and accompany him home.
“On their way to our client’s home, his personal Assistant and others with them were brutally attacked with guns, cutlass and other dangerous weapons by SP Zulaidaini Abba and Sani Bajoga, CSO to the governor of Gombe state.
“It was by whiskers and the Grace of Allah that our client escaped death, but his personal Assistant was not lucky as he was seriously injured by the attackers with cutlasses.

“At a place near the Gombe International Airport Conference Center, Bauchi-Gombe federal highway, ADC and CSO leading Kawu Keep, Sanusi Attacker, Danjuma Skade and many others came with several vehicles belonging to the Government House and numerous thugs behind them.
“The officers with aid of the vehicles of the government blocked the highway, stopped the movement of our client and those with him for hours.
“The ADC and the CSO commanded the numerous thugs bearing matches, short axes, knives, different shaped hard and dried sticks hitherto shielded by them to attack our client and those with him.
“Our client was fortunate not to be killed but his personal Assistant, Adamu Manga, in the same vehicle with our client, received several machetes cut aimed at shoulder level under the supposition that our client was the one being macheted
“In the course of the unleashed attacks on our client and those with him, five persons (including one Isah Abdullahi M of Pantami Quarters Gombe) were killed; numerous vehicles were burnt and damaged.”
While the blame game was on, families of those slain during the mayhem were left to feel the pains of losing loved ones. They died for nothing because their blood rather than bring reconciliation was further creating gap in that both governor Inuwa Yahaya and Senator Danjuma Goje are still at dagger drawn days after their demise.
* James Bwala writes from Maiduguri
Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Senator Danjuma Goje and the Blame Game in Gombe
Politics
2027: Day Borno Welcomes Engr. Mustapha Gubio
2027: Day Borno Welcomes Engr. Mustapha Gubio
By: Hon. Yusuf Adamu
Borno State has always been marked by fervent enthusiasm and a deep-seated commitment to progress. On the historic day when Engr. Mustapha Gubio emerged from the aircraft at Borno’s airport, greeted by an overwhelming sea of supporters, it became evident that a new era was dawning—one that promises unity, development, and sustainable governance. The moment when His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, lifted Gubio’s hand high in the air symbolized more than just a gesture. It was a powerful declaration to the people of Borno and beyond that Engr. Mustapha Gubio is the indisputable consensus candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in 2027.
The remarkably large turnout at the airport upon Engr. Mustapha Gubio’s homecoming underscores a unified political front within the APC and the trust bestowed upon him by Borno’s citizens. The crowd was not merely a gathering; it was a vivid demonstration that the 2027 elections are effectively sealed in favor of the APC. This overwhelming support is a testament to the collective belief that Gubio embodies the qualities necessary to lead Borno towards sustained growth and prosperity. In a region often challenged by security concerns and developmental hurdles, such unity is critical. It signals to all stakeholders that the people of Borno are rallying behind a leader whose vision aligns with their aspirations for peace, stability, and economic advancement.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/pastor-jerry-eze-efccs-endorsement-for-righteousness-after-six-month-probe-for-money-laundering/
Also, the presence of influential political figures at the event solidifies the legitimacy and strength of Engr. Mustapha Gubio’s candidacy. Distinguished personalities such as the Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, whose influence transcends local boundaries, were visibly present and supportive. Alongside him were other key elected representatives, including Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan and members of the House of Representatives, all signaling unwavering allegiance to the APC’s chosen candidate. Their participation does not only lend political weight to Gubio’s campaign but also projects a message of solidarity and collaboration across different tiers of government. Such cohesion is essential for crafting and implementing policies that can address the multifaceted challenges facing Borno.
The demographic diversity of the crowd—youths, women, senior citizens, and children, who greeted his arrival—reflects an inclusive political movement that transcends age, gender, and social strata. This inclusivity is fundamental in fostering a sense of belonging and collective responsibility among citizens. The youths’ enthusiastic participation is especially significant; as the backbone of tomorrow’s workforce and leadership, their endorsement signals hope for innovative approaches and energizing youth-led initiatives in governance. Women, who often bear the brunt of economic and social hardships, demonstrated their support as well, hinting at a future administration that will be sensitive to gender-specific issues and committed to empowering women economically and socially. Senior citizens, carrying the wisdom of experience, also stood in solidarity, showing that Gubio’s leadership enjoys broad generational support—a crucial factor for sustainable peace and continuity.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/pastor-jerry-eze-efccs-endorsement-for-righteousness-after-six-month-probe-for-money-laundering/
Beyond the optics of political alliances and public enthusiasm, the event epitomizes Borno’s resilience and rising spirit after years of adversity. Historically, Borno has confronted significant security threats and humanitarian challenges that have tested its very fabric. The unity displayed at the airport sends a clear signal that the people of Borno have risen above divisive sentiments and are eager to embrace a future characterized by cooperation and constructive engagement. It is a clarion call that the time for fragmentation has passed and that collaborative governance is the pathway forward. Engr. Mustapha Gubio’s candidacy, therefore, is not merely a political milestone; it symbolizes a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transforming Borno into a model state of progress and peace.
Critically, the choice of Engr. Mustapha Gubio aligns perfectly with the needs of Borno at this crucial juncture. With his engineering background and experience in public service, Gubio brings a pragmatic, solution-oriented mindset to governance. The complexities of rebuilding infrastructure, enhancing security, and promoting economic diversification demand technical expertise coupled with visionary leadership. Gubio’s track record indicates that he possesses these attributes, making him uniquely qualified to spearhead initiatives that would stimulate growth, improve living standards, and foster social cohesion. His leadership promises to harness innovation and strategic planning to address longstanding issues, from rebuilding communities ravaged by conflict to improving essential services such as health, education, and transportation.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/pastor-jerry-eze-efccs-endorsement-for-righteousness-after-six-month-probe-for-money-laundering/
The endorsement by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum reinforces the message that continuity in leadership, paired with fresh and capable hands, is vital for Borno’s ongoing recovery and development. Governor Zulum’s administration has been widely recognized for its commitment to transparency, infrastructural development, and human capital investment. By publicly lifting Gubio’s hand, Zulum has not only conferred legitimacy but also assured the continuity of these developmental agendas, ensuring that the progress achieved so far will not be reversed but rather accelerated under Gubio’s stewardship. This seamless transition within the APC framework enhances political stability, which investors and development partners closely monitor as a prerequisite for engagement.
Another persuasive element stems from the APC’s portrayal as “one family,” a phrase poignantly echoed during the reception. Political fragmentation has often undermined development efforts in Nigerian states, including Borno. However, the APC’s unity demonstrates a matured political culture that prioritizes collective good over individual ambitions or factional rivalries. This unity translates directly into stable governance, efficient policy implementation, and a reduction in electoral violence—issues that have historically hampered progress in the region. For the citizenry, the image of a united APC means less political uncertainty and more focus on tangible outcomes such as job creation, improved healthcare, and educational advancement.
READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/pastor-jerry-eze-efccs-endorsement-for-righteousness-after-six-month-probe-for-money-laundering/
Looking forward, the implications of this consensus extend beyond the immediate political cycle. It paves the way for a governance model grounded in inclusivity, competence, and shared vision. Stakeholders—from traditional leaders to civil society groups—can rally behind a single candidate whose mandate is broadly accepted, reducing the risk of post-election disputes and fostering an environment ripe for engagement and partnership. This foundation is indispensable for Borno’s transformation, enabling policies that attract investments, encourage entrepreneurship, and invigorate social programs tailored to the unique needs of its diverse population.
The day Borno welcomed Engr. Mustapha Gubio was more than a political event—it was an affirmation of unity, hope, and determination. The overwhelming crowd, the presence of distinguished political leaders, and the symbolic hand-raising by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum collectively sent an unmistakable message: Borno State is entering a phase of consolidated strength and visionary leadership under the APC banner. Engr. Mustapha Gubio’s emergence as the consensus candidate encapsulates the aspirations of a resilient people ready to transcend past challenges and embrace a prosperous future. As we approach the 2027 elections, it is clear that Borno stands united, steadfast, and prepared for the promising journey ahead under the guiding hand of Engr. Mustapha Gubio. The time for progress has arrived, and Borno’s destiny lies in the fulfillment of this shared dream.
* Hon. Yusuf Adamu writes from Maiduguri.
2027: Day Borno Welcomes Engr. Mustapha Gubio
Politics
Adamawa North Senatorial seat: Gov. Fintiri pledges good representation
Adamawa North Senatorial seat: Gov. Fintiri pledges good representation
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa has formally accepted to contest the senatorial seat to represent Adamawa North under the platform of All Progressives Congress APC following clarion calls by stakeholders from the zone.
Fintiri formally accepted the call in Mubi Local Government Area of Adamawa State after serving two terms in office as the governor of the state.
“I accept the call in the name of Allah and since I didn’t fail you as the governor, I promised you that I will not fail you in the Senate”, Fintiri said.
He promised good representation at the senate and to attract people-oriented projects for the development of the zone.
Fintiri called on aspirants to understand that at the end of the primaries only one aspirant would emerge as candidate in various positions.
He called on them to accept the outcome of the primaries and to remain united for the victory of the party, other candidates and President Bola Tinubu.
Fintiri thanked and appreciated the support given to him and called on the youth not to allow themselves to be used by some politicians to destroy their future.
He also drummed support for President Tinubu and all candidates under the platform of APC for more dividends of democracy.
He pledged to canvas for votes to President Bola Tinubu to ensure his re-election in 2027 election.
According to him, it is now time for Nigerians to reap the benefit of the policies and programmes initiated by the Tinubu administration.
He added that the hardship faced by some people would soon be history as the gains of Tinubu’s reforms would secure better dividends of democracy for Nigerians.
In his remarks, Sen. Amos Yohana, who is currently on the seat expressed readiness to support Gov. Fintiri because of the calls by the stakeholders for Fintiri to replace him.
He also contributed the sum of N20 million for the purchase of the aspiration form for Fintiri.
Earlier in his address, Mr Sale Kingiri, one of the stakeholders disclosed that no fewer than 10, 000 people in the zone made a clarion call for Fintiri to contest for senate in view of his capacity.
He said having Fintiri in the Senate was a pride not only for the zone but the nation due to his sterling performance as the governor.
Gov. Fintiri also paid homage to the emir of Mubi, Alhaji Abubakar Ahmadu.
Adamawa North Senatorial seat: Gov. Fintiri pledges good representation
News
Borno APC Stakeholders Endorse Tinubu, Shettima for 2027, Signal Early Political Realignment
Borno APC Stakeholders Endorse Tinubu, Shettima for 2027, Signal Early Political Realignment
By: Michael Mike
In a move that underscores early political positioning ahead of Nigeria’s next general elections, key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Borno State have formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for a second term in 2027.
The endorsement, announced during a high-level gathering at the Government House Multipurpose Hall in Maiduguri on Saturday, signals a consolidation of political support in one of the APC’s strongest northern bases. Party leaders, government officials, and influential grassroots mobilizers unanimously pledged to rally voters across the state to ensure the continuity of the Tinubu administration.
Addressing the stakeholders, Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum described the endorsement as both a vote of confidence in the current administration and a strategic commitment to sustaining ongoing reforms. He emphasized that the Tinubu-Shettima leadership had demonstrated resolve in tackling Nigeria’s complex security and economic challenges.
According to Zulum, Borno State—long at the epicenter of insurgency—has witnessed renewed federal attention in security coordination, humanitarian interventions, and reconstruction efforts. He noted that continuity in leadership would be critical to consolidating these gains, particularly in the North-East where recovery from years of conflict remains fragile.
“The support for President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima is rooted in performance and trust,” Zulum said. “Borno has seen firsthand the impact of leadership that understands our realities and is committed to long-term stability.”
Borno’s Strategic Role in APC Politics
Borno State holds significant political weight within the APC, not only as a consistent electoral stronghold but also as the political base of Vice President Shettima, a former governor of the state. Since the party’s formation in 2013 and its landmark victory in the 2015 elections, Borno has remained central to APC’s dominance in the North-East.
The state’s political influence is further amplified by its frontline status in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency. Years of conflict involving Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents have shaped national security policies and elevated Borno’s importance in federal decision-making. As a result, endorsements from the state often carry symbolic and strategic significance for national campaigns.
Political analysts view the early endorsement as part of a broader effort by APC stakeholders to stabilize internal party structures and project unity well ahead of the 2027 elections. It also reflects a growing trend of pre-election alignments aimed at discouraging intra-party rivalries and consolidating incumbency advantages.
Momentum Builds Toward 2027
Saturday’s declaration comes amid ongoing national debates over economic reforms, security challenges, and governance priorities under the Tinubu administration. While opposition parties are expected to intensify criticism in the coming years, the APC appears to be laying the groundwork for a coordinated re-election campaign.
Stakeholders at the Maiduguri meeting pledged to embark on extensive grassroots mobilization, voter engagement, and party strengthening initiatives across all local government areas in Borno. They also called on other APC-controlled states to replicate similar endorsements to build a nationwide consensus.
As Nigeria moves deeper into its current electoral cycle, the Borno endorsement highlights how regional political blocs are already shaping the contours of the 2027 race—long before official campaigns begin.
Borno APC Stakeholders Endorse Tinubu, Shettima for 2027, Signal Early Political Realignment
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