SENATOR Muhammad Danjuma Goje has lost the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to represent Gombe Central Senatorial District for a fifth term, marking a major political shift in the zone.
News Point Nigeria reports that the direct primary election conducted on Monday across Akko and Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Areas, the two councils that make up the senatorial district, retired Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Ahmed, emerged victorious to clinch the APC ticket.
The Returning Officer for the election, Habu Dahiru, announced that DCP Ahmed secured 42,785 votes, defeating Senator Goje, who polled 10,425 votes.
Ahmed had earlier emerged as the consensus candidate of the APC for the Gombe Central Senate seat.
Senator Goje has represented the zone at the Senate since 2011, following the completion of his two terms as governor of Gombe State.
Observers say the outcome of the primary election signals a significant shift in the political landscape of Gombe Central.
Speaking with journalists after the exercise, DCP Ahmed said the primary election was conducted peacefully and without disruption, adding that the atmosphere reflected growing support for change within the district.
According to him, party members and residents were enthusiastic about the prospect of stronger representation for the zone at the National Assembly.
“You can see the excitement among the people. Many believe the time has come for Yamaltu-Deba to have a stronger voice at the national level,” he stated.
The APC candidate added that his ambition was not intended to deny anyone the right to contest, but was inspired by what he described as the people’s desire for a new direction.
When contacted, an aide to Senator Goje declined to comment, saying he would first seek clearance from his principal before speaking with journalists.
