The political landscape of Gombe State shifted significantly this week as Hajiya Sa’adatu Sa’ad Mustapha officially threw her hat into the ring for the 2027 gubernatorial race, becoming the first and only woman to seek the state’s highest office in the current cycle.
A seasoned administrator and a former Commissioner for Environment and Forest Resources, Mustapha formally submitted her letter of intent to the State Secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling a bold challenge to the traditional male-dominated political order.
Known affectionately by her traditional title, Alkebbar Kaltungo, the aspirant hails from the Kaltungo Local Government Area and brings a formidable resume to the contest.
Having served as the Director General of Protocol and Facility Management under the incumbent administration of Governor Inuwa Yahaya, her declaration is seen by many as a natural progression of a career dedicated to public service.
Her entry into the race has immediately energized discussions surrounding gender inclusion and representative governance in the North-East region.
Addressing a gathering of supporters and party faithful shortly after her declaration, Mustapha emphasized that her candidacy is rooted in a deep-seated desire to foster a more equitable society.
“My decision to run is driven by a strong sense of duty to serve the people of Gombe,” she stated. “I am advocating for equality, fairness, and opportunities for every citizen, with a specific focus on ensuring that women are no longer just spectators but active participants in the governance of our state.”
The formal notification to the APC leadership marks the beginning of what political analysts predict will be a highly watched primary season.
Sa’adatu’s platform is built on a comprehensive six-point agenda focusing on economic development, youth and women’s empowerment, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security.
She pledged to uphold the core values of the APC, promising a leadership style defined by transparency and people-focused policies.
“We must prioritize sustainable development that reaches the grassroots,” Mustapha added. “Our goal is to implement programs that improve livelihoods, strengthen our infrastructure, and advance socio-economic growth in a way that leaves no one behind.”
Political observers in the state note that Mustapha’s candidacy introduces a fresh and unpredictable dynamic into the ruling party’s internal selection process.
While she faces an uphill battle in a crowded field of male aspirants, her presence is being hailed as a turning point that could inspire a new generation of female leaders across the state.
As the 2027 election cycle gathers momentum, all eyes will be on the APC to see how it navigates this historic bid for the Government House.