Former Minister of Power, Sale Mamman, on Saturday arrived in Jalingo to a rousing welcome by supporters, marking the formal commencement of consultations ahead of his anticipated bid for the Taraba State governorship.
Mamman touched down at the Danbaba Suntai Airport at about 3:30 p.m., where he was received by a large crowd of supporters and political associates.
The enthusiastic reception culminated in a motorcade procession through major streets of the state capital to his campaign office along Barde Way, with supporters chanting slogans and expressing confidence in his leadership.
His arrival has reignited political discourse around the 2027 governorship race in Taraba State, with many supporters projecting him as a strong contender.
Addressing supporters at his campaign office, Mamman urged citizens to remain resolute and adopt a forward-looking mindset geared towards development and progress.
He expressed concern over what he described as the slow pace of development in the state since its creation in 1991, citing gaps in infrastructure, governance, and socio-economic growth.
He called on the electorate to align with leaders who possess clear policy direction and actionable plans capable of improving living standards, noting that his current engagement is focused on broad consultations to shape a viable path toward governance.
In remarks to journalists, the former minister expressed confidence in his capacity to lead, while emphasising that his decision to re-enter the race was influenced by calls from stakeholders and residents seeking change.
According to him, the state’s development trajectory, when compared with others created around the same period, highlights the need for renewed leadership across critical sectors, including infrastructure, education, security, and the economy.
Mamman further urged voters to prioritise competence and credibility in the 2027 elections, rather than ethnic or religious considerations.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles, pledging to respect the outcome of the election, provided it is conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner
