PDP Clears Dankwambo for Gombe North Senate Bid as APC Yahaya Also Secures Nomination

Former Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo, now senator for Gombe North, secured PDP clearance on Thursday. The clearance came from the party’s Gombe State Secretariat and was forwarded to the national leadership. Meanwhile, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya obtained APC approval to seek the senatorial seat once his governorship concludes. Political observers note that the simultaneous clearances have heightened rivalry in Gombe North, where both parties aim to replace the outgoing governor’s influence.

The PDP letter, signed by Screening Committee Chairman Mohammed Dan’azumi Adamu, Secretary Musa Abubakar, and State Secretary Alhaji Adamu Abubakar, listed Dankwambo among cleared Senate aspirants. It also showed Anthony Siyako Yaro cleared for Gombe South and Aliyu Hammadu for Gombe Central. For the House of Representatives, the party cleared Gidado Alhaji Lawanti for Akko, Mohammed Lamido for Dukku/Nafada, and Dr. Obed Paul Shehu for Kaltungo/Shongom. Additional names included Dr. Nasir Ibrahim for Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye, Shu’aibu Umar Galadima for Yamaltu/Deba, and Rambi Ibrahim Ayala for Balanga/Billiri. The letter was addressed to the National Chairman through the National Organising Secretary.

The dual clearances set up a direct contest between the PDP incumbent and the APC governor‑turned‑aspirant in Gombe North. Voters will now see a clear party line‑up for the senatorial race, with both major parties presenting vetted candidates. Analysts say the race could test voter loyalty in a district that has alternated between PDP and APC representation in recent cycles. The outcome could influence the balance of power in the state’s delegation to the National Assembly.