Inside political uprising that stopped Goje’s fifth Senate run

A political uprising in Gombe Central Senatorial District has halted the long-standing dominance of former Governor Danjuma Goje, preventing his bid for a fifth consecutive term in the Senate. The challenge emerged not from a seasoned political rival, but from Mohammed Ahmed, a retired Deputy Commissioner of Police, whose entry dramatically reshaped the political landscape within the ruling All Progressives Congress.

For nearly 16 years, Goje, who also served two terms as Gombe State governor, maintained a firm grip on the Gombe Central Senate seat, representing Akko Local Government Area. He cultivated a formidable political structure across the North-East, commanding loyalty and influence that weathered multiple political transitions. However, beneath the surface, resentment had been simmering in the neighbouring Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area. Stakeholders there felt their area had been marginalized for too long in the allocation of political offices, fueling a growing demand for power rotation based on principles of fairness and equity.

This agitation for rotation found a focal point in Mohammed Ahmed. His transition from a decorated security operative, known for his role in counter-insurgency operations, to a political contender marked a significant shift. Ahmed's appeal rested heavily on his security background, perceived integrity, and a reputation largely free from political controversy. His campaign slogan, "I may be retired but I am not tired," resonated strongly with supporters who believed the district needed a different kind of leadership. His emergence disrupted Goje's established political calculations, highlighting a growing desire for change and broader representation within the senatorial district.

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I may be retired but I am not tired.