Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State have thrown their weight behind the emergence of Jamilu-Isyaku Gwamna as the party’s consensus governorship candidate, calling for unity among members ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, the group described the consensus process that produced Gwamna as “widely consultative and constitutionally grounded,” reaffirming their full endorsement of the outcome.
Our correspondent reports that Gwamna emerged as consensus gubernatorial candidate of Gombe APC as announced by Governor Muhammadu Yahaya.
The stakeholders commended aspirants who accepted the decision in good faith, noting that their reactions reflected the party’s core values of discipline, respect for process, and commitment to collective interest.
They specifically praised Dr. Umaru Kwairanga for what they described as a show of maturity, quoting him as urging his supporters to remain hopeful, saying, “Gaba ya fi baya, In sha Allah,” while expressing appreciation to those who stood by him.
The group also acknowledged Malam Muhammad Magaji’s acceptance of the outcome, quoting his statement as affirming “total belief in the will of God who gives power to whosoever He wishes,” and his directive to supporters to rally behind the party’s candidate.
Similarly, Dr. Aminu Yuguda was quoted as describing the process as “peaceful, transparent and rancour-free,” while pledging “full support and loyalty” to the party and urging his supporters to remain calm and united.
“These statements clearly reflect the core values of our party, discipline, respect for process, and commitment to the collective good above individual ambition,” the stakeholders said.
However, the group expressed concern over what it termed “contrary reactions” from some aspirants who did not participate in the consensus meetings but later questioned the legitimacy of the outcome.
“Participation is fundamental to ownership, and it is difficult to reconcile voluntary absence with post-process objections,” the statement noted.
The stakeholders emphasised that the consensus option remains a lawful and recognised mechanism within the APC, designed to promote unity, reduce internal conflict, and strengthen the party’s chances in elections.
They added that the party had not foreclosed any constitutional pathway, noting that aggrieved aspirants are free to test their popularity through direct primaries in line with the Electoral Act and party guidelines.
“However, what must be avoided at all costs is any attempt to undermine party cohesion or create unnecessary divisions at a time when unity is most needed,” the group warned.
They called on all party members to “close ranks, avoid inflammatory rhetoric, and work collectively” towards securing victory for the APC in the 2027 elections.
“The APC in Gombe State has always emerged stronger from moments like this. This should be no exception. Together, we move forward,” the statement added.
