Gombe APC Settles for Gwamna as Consensus Governorship Candidate
By Musa Haruna
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State has adopted Dr Jamilu Ishiyaku Gwamna as its consensus candidate for the 2027 governorship election, following a stakeholders’ meeting chaired by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.
Party leaders, executives, and other stakeholders from across the state attended an enlarged meeting on Sunday to make the decision.
Party officials said the endorsement was part of efforts to present a united front ahead of the next electoral cycle and avoid a divisive primary contest.
In addition to the governorship ticket, the meeting also ratified consensus candidates for the National Assembly and the Gombe State House of Assembly.
Governor Yahaya was endorsed for the Gombe North Senatorial District, while DCP Ahmed Jarman Deba emerged as the consensus candidate for Gombe Central. Hon. Jerry Damara was selected for Gombe South.
For the House of Representatives, the party endorsed Hon. Fatima Binta Bello (Kaltungo/Shongom), Hon. Ali Isa JC (Billiri/Balanga), Hon. Sadam Bello (Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye), Hon. Jamilu Shabewa (Dukku/Nafada), Inuwa Garba (Yamaltu/Deba), and Hon. Usman Bello Kumo (Akko Federal Constituency).
However, some prominent figures in the party were absent from the meeting, including the minister of transport, Sa’idu Ahmad Alkali; former minister of communications and digital economy, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami; and Senator Muhammad Danjuma Goje.
Mr Alkali and Mr Pantami are widely believed to be among those interested in the governorship race, while Mr Goje currently represents Gombe Central Senatorial District.
Their absence has raised questions about internal consultations within the party, although officials insist discussions are ongoing to accommodate all interests.
The APC said the consensus arrangement reflects broad consultations and is aimed at strengthening cohesion as the party prepares for the 2027 elections in the state.