The 2027 governorship race in Gombe State gained significant momentum as prominent businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Abdulkadir Hamma Saleh, officially entered the contest.
His intent was formalized at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) State Secretariat in Gombe, where his chief representative and Chairman of the Hamsal Project 2027, Hon. Danladi Garba, picked up the nomination form on his behalf.
The move is being viewed by political stakeholders as a strategic boost for the PDP, given Saleh’s deep-rooted grassroots connection and long-standing history of humanitarian services.
Known for his “inclusive approach,” Saleh has remained a steadfast member of the party, a trait that Hon. Danladi Garba emphasized during the brief ceremony.
“Alhaji Hamma Saleh is not just a politician; he is a man who has consistently stood by the people and the party, even during the most challenging political seasons,” Garba stated.
“By picking up this form, we are responding to the calls of thousands of citizens who desire a leader with a proven track record of human capital development.”
Saleh’s influence in Gombe is largely attributed to the Hamma Saleh Memorial Foundation, which has reached all 114 wards of the state.
The foundation is credited with providing scholarships to indigent students and providing seed capital to small-scale entrepreneurs. This philanthropic footprint has earned him the popular Hausa moniker among residents, “Mutumin kirki ne” (He is a good man).
Political analysts suggest that Saleh’s entrance shifts the internal dynamics of the PDP, potentially unifying the party’s various factions.
“The PDP needs a candidate who enjoys goodwill across party lines,” noted one local commentator. “Saleh’s reputation as a peaceful and humble leader makes the party exceptionally competitive as we look toward 2027.”
As the political atmosphere in Gombe State intensifies, many party loyalists are now looking toward former Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo and other senior stakeholders to weigh Saleh’s popularity and loyalty in their strategic planning. With the nomination form now secured, the Hamsal Project 2027 is expected to embark on a statewide consultation tour, further solidifying a candidacy that many believe could reposition the PDP for a return to the Government House.