Ex-Gombe governor Goje debunks defection rumour, reaffirms APC membership

Senator Danjuma Goje, a former Governor of Gombe State, has firmly refuted speculation about his potential defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC). The rebuttal came after hundreds of his supporters from Gombe Central and surrounding areas sought clarification on his political future ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Goje, who is a founding member of the APC, reaffirmed his commitment to the party and urged his supporters to maintain their loyalty. "I have not defected to any political party. As a founding member of the APC, I remain a member of the party," he stated. He added that given his extensive years of service and the positions he has held, it would be inappropriate to switch parties simply to contest for the Senate at this stage of his life.

“

I have not defected to any political party. As a founding member of the APC, I remain a member of the party. Given my years of service and the positions I have held in the country, it would be inappropriate for me, at this stage of my life, to decamp to another party simply to contest for the Senate.

Reflecting on his nearly 45-year political career, Goje recalled contesting and winning eight elections. He expressed gratitude for divine guidance and the privileges he has had, including serving as a two-term governor and winning five Senate elections, as well as a ministerial position. He emphasized that the APC is their collective "house" that they built and will continue to work for its success.

“

Therefore, I am urging all my supporters across Gombe and beyond to cooperate with our leaders and remain loyal to the party. This is our house. We built it, and we will continue to work for its success.

Goje mentioned that he had initially retired from active politics in 2019 but was persuaded by his supporters to contest the 2023 Senate election. They reportedly bought the nomination form for him and managed his campaign, leading to his victory even without his active participation in electioneering. He remains grateful for their unwavering loyalty and belief in him.

Furthermore, Goje assured his supporters that his ongoing empowerment programs would continue regardless of his political status. His clarification aims to quell rumors and solidify his position within the APC as political activities gear up for future elections.

“

In 2019, I told my people at Pantami Stadium that I would not contest any political position again. But they prevailed on me to contest for the Senate again. They bought the form for me and told me not to come for the campaign because they would campaign for me.