Gombe expels transport company from park, firm alleges political retaliation

The Gombe State Government has ordered the expulsion of Gombawa Motors Nigeria Limited from the Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo Mega Park, issuing a notice to quit within 24 hours. This decision follows the transport company's public declaration of support for the Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate, Professor Isa Pantami, just two days prior.

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The expulsion came shortly after the company openly identified with Professor Isa Ali Pantami. The timing raises legitimate concerns over political interference.

The expulsion notice, dated June 25, 2026, and signed by the Managing Director of Principal Facilities Management Limited, cited repeated violations of the park's operational regulations, failure to comply with management directives, and complaints from other operators. However, the notice made no reference to politics, maintaining that the action was based solely on operational infractions.

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The notice failed to clearly specify the alleged violations. Support for any political figure is a constitutional right protected under Nigerian law.

Reacting to the expulsion, the company's Secretary, Muhammad Umar, described the move as politically motivated, pointing to the timing as evidence of political interference. Umar also faulted the notice for failing to specify the alleged violations, asserting that support for any political figure is a constitutional right. He further argued that the decision violated the company's constitutional rights regarding freedom of association and the right to fair hearing.

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This action raises constitutional concerns regarding freedom of association and the right to fair hearing. A major private transport operator should not be removed without due process and clearly established procedures.

When contacted, the General Manager of Gombe Line, Dr. Sani Sabo, confirmed the expulsion but dismissed allegations of political victimisation, insisting the decision was taken strictly based on operational infractions and that the company is not above the law.

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They are not above the law.