Taraba 2027: Ex-Minister Sambo Throws Hat Into Taraba Governorship Ring, Pushes Direct Primaries
Njideka Ozoalor
Former Minister of Transportation Engr. Mu’azu Jaji Sambo has vowed to give Governor Agbu Kefas an “unforgettable fight” for the Taraba Government House as he pushes for the APC ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.
Sambo, who served as Minister of Transportation from July 2022 to May 2023, spoke with newsmen in Abuja shortly after his screening by the APC panel. “I have just been screened as the next Governor of Taraba State,” he declared.
Sambo described the screening session as a positive experience, praising the party executive members on the panel. “It was a very good experience. I met intelligent, competent, humble executives of the party,” Sambo said.
The former minister said he was struck by the humility of the panel members. “It’s quite rare to find people in high places remaining humble. I met humble gentlemen and a lady this afternoon, and I’m proud of them,” he stated.
Sambo reaffirmed his pride in the APC. “I’m proud to be a member of the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress,” he added.
On contesting against an incumbent governor from the same party, Sambo declined to reveal his full strategy. “I’m not the one to tell you what I hope to do to win” he said, signaling readiness for a tough primary battle.
Asked about his preferred mode of primaries, he was unequivocal. “I prefer direct primaries,” Sambo said and he argued that direct primaries are more democratic and provides a true test of popularity.
“It’s more democratic, and it tests your popularity. If you are good, you win outright and, most importantly, you come out a winner,” he explained.
Sambo said a clear win through direct primaries would make post-primary reconciliation easier. “Other contestants should be able to come together and work with you and build a great party and a great future for the state,” he noted.
On his agenda, the former minister said infrastructure development would be his priority. “I am for development, especially infrastructure. The few months I spent as minister in the last dispensation is a testament to what I can do,” he said.
Sambo expressed confidence that his track record speaks for him. “Tarabans will tell you that. And I will do it better as governor. Even do it much better,” he concluded.
The governorship aspirant vowed to give Kefas the unforgettable fight to enable him occupy the government house, while also declaring the hope that other aspirants will step down for him.
