By Yusuf Salihu Sansani, Jalingo
Former Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo, has formally declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Taraba State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that he will not step down for any aspirant.
Jaji made the declaration while addressing journalists in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, shortly after arriving in the state to participate in the party’s political activities.
According to him, his governorship ambition is driven by a desire to reposition Taraba State and improve the living conditions of its people rather than personal interests.
He lamented what he described as the slow pace of development in Taraba despite the state being created over three decades ago, noting that many communities still lack basic infrastructure and social amenities.
The former minister pointed to poor road networks, inadequate healthcare facilities, and insufficient public infrastructure as major challenges confronting the state.
He compared Taraba with Gombe State, which was created years after Taraba but has, according to him, recorded significant developmental progress.
Jaji maintained that his performance at the federal level and his contributions to communities in Taraba State stand as evidence of his capacity to govern effectively.
“I personally facilitated the construction of major roads in Jalingo and Takum, supported educational development through the provision of schools, computers, and other learning facilities.
“If given the opportunity to serve as governor, I will transform Taraba into a state people can truly be proud of,” he said.
On the forthcoming APC governorship primary, Jaji stated that he was prepared to accept the outcome of the election if the process is transparent and credible.
He, however, warned against manipulation of the process, insisting that any attempt to compromise the integrity of the exercise would be challenged through appropriate channels.
The APC governorship aspirant called for openness in the distribution of election materials and urged party officials to ensure that all aspirants are adequately informed and involved throughout the process to guarantee free and fair primaries.
Addressing supporters who welcomed him in a motorcade from the Danbaba Suntai Airport to Jalingo metropolis, Jaji described his governorship bid as a response to the collective aspirations of the people of Taraba State.
“From the plains of Wukari to the hills of Mambilla, the message from the people has remained consistent, Taraba deserves progress, inclusiveness, security, and purposeful leadership,” he stated.
He said his vision is to build a Taraba where farmers are empowered, youths are productively engaged, women are supported, and communities are secure, while governance is driven by competence, compassion, and measurable results rather than ethnic or religious considerations.
Jaji also urged journalists to uphold professionalism in the discharge of their responsibilities by ensuring accurate and balanced coverage of political developments across the state.
He described the media as a critical institution in sustaining democracy and protecting the rights of citizens during the electoral process.
