2027: Jaji Plans To Rescue Taraba From Underdevelopment

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has successfully screened the former Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Sambo Jaji, to participate in the party’s primary election, ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

Alhaji Jaji, who was screened on Sunday at the Kaduna State House by the party’s gubernatorial screening committee, said his ambition was aimed at rescuing the state from underdevelopment and to repositioning it for massive growth.

Addressing journalists shortly after the exercise, the former minister said, Taraba State had failed to attain the level of development expected 35 years after its creation.

He stressed that he decided to run for office to change the narrative and rekindle the people’s hope.

“Rather than sit and complain about the backwardness of our state after thirty-five years of its creation, I would rather throw my hat into the ring and contest,” he said.

The former minister said his administration would focus on rebuilding the state and driving sustainable development if elected governor.

Alhaji Jaji also commended the party leadership for adopting the direct primary option for the governorship contest, describing it as a more democratic process that can test the popularity and acceptability of aspirants.

“This is democracy. With direct primaries, you are bound to test your popularity and acceptability rather than rely on games and gimmicks associated with indirect primaries or consensus candidacy,” he stated.

Speaking on his chances in the race, especially against an incumbent administration, the former minister said the developmental realities in Taraba had made the contest necessary.

“Go and check the developmental index of my dear state. Check our debt profile and human capital indicators; the records are there. I am tired of complaining. I would rather join the race to salvage my home state than sit on the fence,” he added.

He further praised members of the screening committee led by Dr Benjamin Obi Nwoye, for their professionalism, transparency and ethical conduct during the exercise.

“The National leadership of the party got it right, and I hope this same level of organisation is replicated at the state level,” Jaji said.