Gombe Governor Warns Against Violence Ahead of APC Primaries

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, issued a stern warning against violence and lawlessness ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in the state.

In a statewide broadcast on Wednesday, Governor Yahaya declared that his administration wouldn't tolerate any form of violence or political unrest during and after the primaries. He emphasized that political parties in the state must conduct their primaries according to the Electoral Act 2026 and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines.

He stated that, according to Section 84(2) of the Electoral Act, political parties can only nominate candidates through direct primaries or consensus arrangements. The Act clearly outlines these procedures for candidate nomination.

Governor Yahaya disclosed that the APC initially explored the consensus option with the support of party elders and state executives. He described this process as largely successful. However, complete consensus couldn't be reached due to disagreements from a few aspirants, making direct primaries inevitable.

The governor noted that he's entering the final year of his second term on May 29. Preserving peace and stability in the state remains his top priority. He directed security agencies to deal decisively with anyone attempting to disrupt the peace during and after the primaries.

'Let me be very clear: there'll be zero tolerance for violence, lawlessness, and political rascality from any individual or group.'

The governor expressed concern over 'conflict entrepreneurs' seeking to exploit the political season to create instability in the state. He called on political parties, aspirants, and supporters to put the state's interest above personal ambitions.

Governor Yahaya's administration has worked to maintain peace and stability in Gombe State. Despite security challenges in the North-East and northern Nigeria, the state has enjoyed relative peace. The governor's administration has collaborated with security agencies to prevent violence or unrest during the primaries.

The governor's warning comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections. Parties are increasingly adopting direct primaries or consensus arrangements to select their candidates. As a governor who has taken an oath to protect lives and property, Muhammadu Yahaya's priority is to ensure the state remains peaceful and stable.

He was first elected as the Governor of Gombe State in 2019 and won a second term in 2025. The APC primaries are a crucial step in selecting candidates for the 2027 general elections. Governor Yahaya's administration is keen to ensure a peaceful and transparent process.

In the past, Gombe State experienced some security challenges. However, Governor Yahaya's administration has worked to address these issues. The state's economy is largely driven by agriculture. His administration has worked to boost this sector.

The APC primaries in Gombe State are expected to be closely watched, given the governor's warning against violence and lawlessness.