A former aide to Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo has dismissed allegations of internal division within the Gombe State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), asserting that the former governor remains the party’s undisputed leader.
Mallam Junaidu Abubakar, who previously served as the senator’s Senior Special Assistant on Press and Media, made the remarks while addressing journalists in Abuja on Sunday.
He stated that no one, including the incumbent Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has the political strength to challenge Dankwambo’s influence, especially within the Gombe North Senatorial District.
“The claim that Dankwambo is responsible for disunity in the PDP is baseless and unfounded,” Abubakar said, responding to comments attributed to former Jekadafari Gombe local government councillor. Abubakar alleged that the criticisms were orchestrated by political rivals attempting to deflect blame.
“This is a sponsored attack. Someone is trying to tarnish the senator’s image,” he asserted.
He described Senator Dankwambo as a loyal and strategic figure within the PDP in Nigeria, having served three Nigerian presidents under the party’s platform and supported several PDP governors to electoral victory.
“Dankwambo remains one of the most respected stakeholders in the PDP nationwide.
The people of Gombe State see him as a symbol of patience and purposeful leadership,” he added.
Criticising the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Abubakar claimed that since taking over, the APC has failed to address critical needs such as civil service employment and promotion and backwardness in the education sector, but instead has focused on wasteful projects like government guest houses.
“These are not the priorities of the people of Gombe,” he said.
“With increased federal allocations, the people expect long-term investments to secure their future.”
Abubakar also highlighted Dankwambo’s achievements as a Senator, citing the construction of a mini hydroelectric power station in his constituency, the establishment of health centres, and building schools.
He noted that the senator had facilitated employment opportunities for youths in national institutions such as the police, army, and immigration service.
“Dankwambo is a political bridge and mentor to many. He has extended his generosity to other PDP aspirants across Nigeria,” Abubakar said.
