Gombe Governor Issues Warning Over Potential Violence at APC Primary Elections

Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State issued a stern warning to politicians and their supporters on Wednesday, cautioning them against engaging in violent behavior as the party primaries for the 2027 general elections approach, and emphasizing that his administration will not tolerate lawlessness and political unrest.

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Yahaya made this declaration during a statewide broadcast from his conference room, where he also stated that all political parties in the state will be required to conduct their primaries in accordance with the Electoral Act 2026 and the guidelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

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According to the governor, Section 84(2) of the Electoral Act 2026 stipulates that political parties can only nominate candidates through either direct primaries or consensus arrangements, highlighting the importance of adhering to these provisions.

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As the 2027 general elections draw near, Yahaya noted that preparations are underway, and political parties are expected to conduct their primary elections in compliance with the Electoral Act 2026, ensuring a fair and transparent process.

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The governor revealed that the ruling All Progressives Congress had initially attempted to use the consensus option, with the support of party elders and state executives, describing the process as largely successful, although a few aspirants disagreed with the arrangement.

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Yahaya explained that the lack of unanimous acceptance of the consensus arrangement made it necessary to proceed with direct primaries, which he believes offers a fair and transparent platform for all aspirants to seek the mandate of party members.

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The governor, who will be entering the final year of his second term on May 29, emphasized that maintaining peace and stability in the state remains his top priority, and he will not compromise on this issue.

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Yahaya stressed that he is addressing the public not as a candidate or political leader, but as a governor who has sworn to protect lives and property, and he will prioritize the stability of Gombe State over any politician's ambition.

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The governor warned that security agencies have been instructed to take decisive action against anyone who attempts to disrupt the peace during and after the primaries, and he reiterated that there will be zero tolerance for violence and lawlessness.

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Yahaya cautioned that any individual or group found to be implicated in any breakdown of law and order before, during, or after the primary elections will face severe legal consequences, regardless of their status or position.

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The governor expressed concern over the activities of "conflict entrepreneurs" who seek to exploit the political season to create instability in the state, and he urged all stakeholders to prioritize the interest of the state above personal ambitions.

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Since its creation in 1996, Gombe State has enjoyed relative peace and stability, despite the security challenges facing the North-East and northern Nigeria, and Yahaya called on political parties, aspirants, and supporters to work together to maintain this stability.

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Yahaya pledged to continue collaborating with security agencies to ensure peaceful primaries and general elections, and he urged all stakeholders to deny "agents of darkness and merchants of conflict" the opportunity to sow discord among the people of Gombe State.

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As the 2027 general elections approach, political parties across Nigeria are increasingly adopting either direct primaries or consensus arrangements to select their candidates, in line with the Electoral Act 2026, marking a significant development in the country's electoral process.