Gombe State governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya on Saturday hosted a grand reception in honour of his predecessor, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, who gave his daughter, Hafsat, in marriage.
The reception at the Gombe International Conference Centre drew an impressive gathering of dignitaries from across Nigeria, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, Governors of Bauchi and Oyo States, National and State Assembly members, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and well-wishers from across the country.
In a press statement by Isma’il Uba Misilli, the director general of Press Affairs in Gombe State, Governor Yahaya’s gesture of organising and hosting the event was widely commended by attendees as a bold display of leadership beyond partisanship, further cementing his reputation as a unifying figure committed to peace, mutual respect, and social harmony.
At the event, Senate President Godswill Akpabio thanked Governor Yahaya for the warm reception extended to guests, describing the gesture as a rare act of sportsmanship and hospitality.
“We thank you for hosting us and giving us such exceptional hospitality in honour of one of us. It is clear that Gombe State, under your leadership, has demonstrated a level of political tolerance and unity that is truly admirable,” Senator Akpabio said.
“The presence of over seven senators here today, regardless of party affiliations, is proof of Senator Dankwambo’s unifying spirit and also a testimony to Gombe State’s peaceful and welcoming environment.”
The speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas also hailed the governor, “This is a union between families from different political backgrounds. This is exactly what Nigeria needs: unity across party, ethnic and religious lines.
Governor Inuwa’s role in this event speaks volumes about his character and vision for a united Nigeria,” the speaker noted.
In his remarks, former Senate President Bukola Saraki hailed the governor, saying his actions reflected a deep sense of humility and solidarity with the people, celebrating their successes or standing by them in moments of need, regardless of political affiliation or location.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, Governor Inuwa Yahaya expressed delight at hosting such an event, noting that Gombe prides itself on being a land of harmony, respect and warm reception.
The governor used the occasion to emphasise the enduring values of unity, tolerance and mutual respect, which he said are the hallmarks of Gombe State’s identity.
He stressed that regardless of political affiliations, ethnic backgrounds, or religious beliefs, the people of Gombe remain united by a common purpose: building a peaceful and progressive society.
“We in Gombe believe in standing together as one people. This occasion reflects who we are: accommodating, peaceful, and united. It is my hope that today’s celebration will further strengthen the bonds that connect us, not only as leaders and colleagues, but as brothers and sisters committed to a greater Nigeria,” the governor remarked.
In his vote of thanks, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, a member of the opposition People Democratic Party (PDP), expressed gratitude to Governor Inuwa Yahaya for his support, friendship, and solidarity throughout the wedding activities.
“I want to specifically thank the governor for standing by me at this historic moment. His contributions, both in kind and in spirit, have played a major role in the success of this event. This is true leadership and brotherhood, and I am deeply grateful,” he said.
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