From Abdulrazaq Mungadi, Gombe
As Gombe State looks ahead to the 2027 gubernatorial election, political activities and consultations are already gaining momentum across the state. While the election is still two years away, an array of aspirants have begun jostling for relevance and support.
From the corridors of power in Abuja to the towns and villages, the race to occupy the State Government House has unofficially begun. Daily Sun takes a closer look at the leading contenders and possible pretenders preparing to throw their hats into the ring for what promises to be one of the most competitive gubernatorial contests in Gombe’s recent political history.
The Frontrunners
Sa’idu Alkali
The Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Alkali, is one of the most influential political figures in Gombe who rose to prominence as the Senator representing Gombe North senatorial district. He was initially elected to the Senate in 2010. Despite facing electoral challenges throughout his career, Alkali has shown his ability to serve as a bridge between various political platforms and constituencies.
Sources close to the Minister have indicated his interest in becoming the next governor of the state. With deep ties at the federal level and a strong youth following in parts of Gombe, Alkali’s political career is widely regarded as charmed, with many locals referring to him as one of the luckiest politicians in Gombe State. His federal connections and ministerial experience provide him with significant advantages as the race begins to take shape.
Prof. Isa Pantami
The former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, is another influential figure believed to be gearing up for the gubernatorial race. Recently, the Northeast Youth Coalition publicly urged him to contest in the 2027 governorship election, highlighting his acumen and dedication to progress. While Pantami’s political networks may prove decisive in the upcoming election, questions about his grassroots appeal in certain regions of the state could potentially affect his prospects as a candidate. Nevertheless, his federal experience makes him a formidable contender.
Muhammad Barde
As the flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, Barde is seen as a persistent and determined contender. Though unsuccessful in his last bid for the governorship, his growing political capital and loyal following suggest he may return with a stronger strategy for the 2027 contest.
Political analysts note that Barde has maintained visibility since the last election, strengthening his connections across the state. His refusal to abandon his gubernatorial ambitions after previous defeats shows a level of commitment that resonates with many voters in the state.
Usman Kumo
Currently serving as a member of the House of Representatives and Chief Whip of the 10th Assembly, Kumo, fondly called “World” by his supporters, is a key figure in the ruling APC. He is considered a grassroots politician with a strong base, especially in the central part of the state where he commands loyalty.
His political experience in the National Assembly, coupled with his close connections to influential people in the presidency, might serve him well in the upcoming gubernatorial contest. However, internal party dynamics will be crucial to his success, as some members of the party within his constituency might work against him.
Khamisu Mailantarki
Having contested in the 2023 race under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Mailantarki has maintained his political relevance and continues to feature prominently in discussions about potential candidates for the 2027 governorship election.
Sources close to Mailantarki suggest he has been engaging with community leaders across the state, positioning himself as a credible alternative. His grassroots mobilisation and ability to connect with disaffected voters, particularly the youth demographic, make him a notable contender in the political landscape of Gombe State.
Rising Contenders
Yunusa Yakubu
Yakubu, an entrepreneur is another name dominating public discussions as a potential frontrunner for the gubernatorial race. He is a primary and secondary school friend of the incumbent governor, Muhammad Yahaya, as well as a business associate who could potentially leverage the influence of the current administration. However, his primary challenge might lie in bridging the gap between elite circles and grassroots mobilisation, an area where other candidates may outshine him. Nevertheless, his business acumen could appeal to voters seeking prosperity and growth.
Ali Isa
Currently serving as a member of the House of Representatives, Isa is also said to be among politicians eyeing the governor’s seat. Political observers note that he would have significant work to do in gaining acceptability within the political class and among voters in the central and northern parts of the state, where his influence has traditionally been less pronounced.
Despite these challenges, Isa has been expanding his political network and engaging with community leaders across different regions of the state.
Aliyu Kombat
Though he recently released a statement announcing that it is not yet time for him to go public with his intentions, Kombat is currently emerging as a youth favorite in the state. He has been effectively leveraging social media platforms to maintain political relevance and build a substantial following among younger voters.
Kombat’s approach to political engagement, focusing on digital outreach and youth messaging, is a departure from traditional political methods in the state. This approach has enabled him to cultivate a distinct identity in Gombe’s political landscape, positioning him as a force in the upcoming election.
The strategic players
Mohammed Magaji and Sani Haruna
The current Commissioner of Finance, Mohammed G Magaji, and the Chairman of Gombe Local Government Council, Sani Haruna, are the quiet strategists in the gubernatorial race. Insider sources say that these professionals-turned-politicians are cultivating alliances that may influence the outcome of the contest.
Both Magaji and Haruna have been building support within the political establishment while maintaining close ties to the grassroots. Their positions in the current administration is an added advantage, however, achieving name recognition and wider appeal might pose challenging for both of them.
Other notable contenders
Those such as Bala Bello Tinka, Hamma Saleh, Dattuwa Ali Kumo, Senator Bayaro Nafada, and Dr. Aminu Umar Yuguda, the current Accountant General of the state and Umaru Kwaranga (Sarkin Fulani) are believed to be among other formidable contenders preparing to enter the race. Each of these individuals brings unique strengths and political networks to the table.
Party dynamics
The APC in Gombe has taken measures to maintain peace by issuing stern warnings to aspirants against engaging in early political activities that might disrupt party unity. Party officials have emphasised the importance of allowing Governor Yahaya to complete his second term without the distractions of politics.
On the other hand, the Gombe State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) continues to face significant internal challenges, including high-profile defections and persistent crisis that could impact its performance in the upcoming election if not properly addressed. Party leaders have been working to reconcile various factions, but the road to unity remains challenging.
Another issue is the recent emergence of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) as a growing force across Nigeria. The party has been making inroads into Gombe’s political landscape, potentially offering an alternative platform for candidates dissatisfied with the two dominant parties.
The governor’s vision for succession
While various politicians and political parties continue their groundwork ahead of the 2027 gubernatorial election in Gombe, the state governor recently hinted at the qualities he believes his successor should possess.
Speaking during his latest quarterly media chat, he assured voters that his successor will be a politician with a developmental mindset and a growth-driven approach to governance. “We will support a candidate who will build upon our successes and be ready to achieve even more for the state,” he said.
The road ahead
The next two years will be crucial for aspirants to build support networks. Voters will be watching closely to determine which candidate best represents their interests. What is clear from the current political maneuvering is that the 2027 gubernatorial election in Gombe State will be very competitive.