A former governor of Gombe State and serving senator, Muhammadu
Danjuma Goje (APC, Gombe), on Saturday announced his intention not to
contest election again.
Goje who disclosed this during an empowerment programme, tagged, “Goje
Empowerment Programme” at the Pantami Stadium, Gombe State, said he
would, however, remain in politics.
“Therefore, having contested and won all seven elections in addition
to being a Minister for the country, I strongly believe that Allah
(SWT) has been extremely kind to me. I believe not many Nigerians are
so lucky and blessed.
“It is in this light foregoing and having reached an advanced age, I
wish to formally inform you that I have decided not to contest any
election again. For the avoidance of doubt, I will not contest any
election at all levels,” he said.
He said he will give the younger ones the opportunity to also grow and
showcase their God-given talent, especially in this digital age.
“However, this does not mean that I will retire from politics. Far
from that. I will continue to be an active card carrying member of the
APC and participate in all political activities at all levels except
that I will not contest any election,” he said.
Amidst thousands of supporters, the former governor recalled how he
ventured into politics, saying, “I have had a rare opportunity of
contesting and winning seven elections conducted at various levels by
the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“In the Second Republic during Shagari’s government, as a very young
man , I contested and won election into the Bauchi State House of
Assembly. In 1998, I also contested and won election as senator for
Gombe Central Senatorial district under defunct UNCP during Abacha’s
regime.
“I then, in 2003, contested and won the governorship election of Gombe
State. I was reelected in 2007. In 2011, 2015 and 2019, I contested
and won three senatorial elections for Gombe Central Senatorial
district.”
Thanking his constituents, Mr Goje said “I have every reason to thank
Allah (SWT), the people of my primary constituency (Pindiga Emirate),
Akko Loca\ Government, Gombe State and indeed the entire country for
giving me the very rare opportunity to rise from ‘grass to grace’ as
is commonly said.”
He said he would continue to support Gombe State Governor, Muhammad
Yahaya, and his government.
“At the National level, I will continue to be loyal and supportive of
His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed
Forces, Muhammadu Buhari, and the government. Of course, I will
continue to be active and loyal member of the National Assembly under
the leadership of the President of the Senate, Senator Ahmad Lawan, my
loyalty to the party under the chairmanship of Adams Oshiomole is also
unquestionably,” Mr Goje who chairs the Senate Committee on Marine
Transport said.
