A group under the aegis of Concerned NDC Gombe Youth has called on the national leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to carefully review the governorship ambition of Dr. Babayo Ardo ahead of the 2027 elections in Gombe State.
In a petition addressed to the National Working Committee of the party in Abuja, the group alleged that Ardo’s aspiration could damage the credibility and electoral prospects of the party in the state.
The petition, signed by the Chairman of the group, Peter Emanuel, Chairman, on behalf of concerned NDC Gombe youth, Isah Musa, Secretary, accused the governorship aspirant of lacking the integrity, grassroots support and political structure required to lead the party to victory.
The youths alleged that Ardo is reportedly under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over issues linked to his tenure as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
They also questioned his political loyalty, claiming that his past association with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and alleged expulsion from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kumo, Akko Local Government Area, had raised doubts among party members.
“Endorsing a candidate under such circumstances raises serious questions about integrity and loyalty to the party,” the petition stated.
The group further warned that granting Ardo the NDC governorship ticket could reinforce public perception that the party is being influenced by the APC-led Federal Government.
“Many people in Gombe State are already expressing concerns that the NDC is being sponsored or influenced by the current APC-led administration,” the group said.
“Because Dr. Ardo served under that same administration, awarding him the NDC ticket will further strengthen public suspicion that the NDC is a sponsored platform created to advance APC interests in Gombe State.”
According to the youths, such perception could weaken public confidence in the party, especially among undecided voters ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The petition also alleged that Ardo lacks the political structure needed for effective mobilization across wards and local government areas in the state.
“Dr. Ardo has not demonstrated the necessary political structure at ward, local government and state levels required for effective grassroots mobilization,” the group stated.
Speaking on the position of young voters, the group maintained that the majority of youths in Gombe State are seeking leaders with integrity, credibility and strong grassroots connections.
“Our findings indicate that Dr. Ardo does not enjoy the confidence or support of the majority of young voters, whose votes will be decisive,” the petition added.
The youths urged the NDC national leadership to prioritise candidates with “proven integrity, organisational capacity and broad grassroots support” in order to protect the image and future of the party in Gombe State.
They also called on the party to safeguard its independence and avoid actions capable of reinforcing claims that it is operating under the influence of the APC.