Former Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo, has formally declared his intention to contest the governorship of Taraba State on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that he will not step down for any aspirant ahead of the party’s primary election.
Speaking with journalists in Jalingo, Sambo said his ambition was driven by a desire to reposition Taraba State for sustainable growth and development rather than personal interest.
He lamented the state of infrastructure and social services in the state, noting that despite being created 35 years ago, Taraba still lacks adequate roads, modern healthcare facilities, and other basic amenities.
According to him, Taraba has the potential to achieve rapid development similar to Gombe State, which he described as a model of progress despite being created years after Taraba State.
Sambo said his track record at the federal level and his contributions to Taraba State during his time in public office speak for his capacity to govern effectively.
“I personally facilitated the construction of three major roads in Jalingo and one in Takum. I also supported the education sector through the provision of schools, computers, and other learning facilities,” he said.
He promised to transform Taraba into “a safe haven and a state that citizens would be proud of” if elected governor.
On the forthcoming APC governorship primary, Sambo said he was prepared to accept the outcome of the exercise if it is conducted transparently and fairly. However, he warned that he would challenge the results if the process is manipulated.
He called for openness in the distribution of election materials and urged party officials to involve all aspirants in the process to ensure credibility and prevent diversion of materials.
Addressing supporters during a rally held after his arrival from Danbaba Suntai Airport to the Jalingo city centre, Sambo described his governorship ambition as “a decision about the soul and destiny of Taraba State.”
“From the plains of Wukari to the hills of the Mambilla, the people are demanding progress, inclusion, and accountable leadership,” he said.
He pledged to pursue policies that would empower farmers, create opportunities for youths, support women, and improve security across communities, stressing that governance under his administration would be based on competence, compassion, and results rather than ethnic or religious considerations.
Sambo also urged journalists to uphold professionalism and play their role in safeguarding democracy by reporting facts accurately and monitoring activities across wards in the state during the electoral process.
