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By Terna Chikpa
Former Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo, on Sunday said his governorship ambition was triggered by the slow pace of development in Taraba State, 35 years after its creation.
Speaking after being screened to contest the 2027 governorship election at the Kaduna State House, Jaji lamented that Taraba State had yet to attain the level of progress expected among its peers and urged citizens to support his ambition for accelerated development.
The former minister, who is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Building (FNIOB), said his ambition is driven by a commitment to rebuild and reposition Taraba State for sustainable growth and prosperity.
“The slow pace of development in Taraba State since its creation 35 years ago is the major reason why I am contesting to change the narrative. The state has yet to attain the level of progress expected among its peers.
“Rather than sit and complain about the backwardness of our state after 35 years of its creation, I would rather throw my hat into the ring and contest,” Jaji stated.
The Taraba governorship aspirant also commended the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for adopting direct primaries instead of consensus or indirect primaries.
“This is democracy,” he said. “With direct primaries, you are bound to test your popularity and acceptability rather than rely on the games and gimmicks associated with indirect primaries or consensus candidacy.”
Responding to questions regarding his chances against an incumbent administration, Jaji maintained that the state’s developmental realities speak for themselves.
“Go and check the developmental index of my dear state. Check our debt profile and human capital indicators; the records are there. I am tired of complaining. I would rather join the race to salvage my home state than sit on the fence. To liberate Taraba, I have decided to run. Above all, this is democracy,” he added.
Reflecting on the screening process, Jaji praised the professionalism and conduct of the committee members, particularly the chairman of the gubernatorial screening panel, Benjamin Obi Nwoye.
“I must candidly appreciate the humility and professionalism of the committee. The committee impressed me deeply. Their commitment to ethical standards, simplicity, and camaraderie was commendable. The national leadership of the party got it right, and I hope this same level of organisation is replicated at the state level,” he said.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that the outcome of the screening exercise is expected in the coming days ahead of the party primaries.
