Former Minister of Transportation, Mu'azu Jaji Sambo, has expressed deep concern over what he described as the slow pace of development in Taraba State, 35 years after its creation. Sambo made the remarks shortly after undergoing screening over the weekend for the Taraba State governorship race ahead of the forthcoming general election, declaring that the time has come to reposition the state for meaningful progress.
Call for Change
The former minister said Taraba has failed to attain the level of growth expected among states created at the same time, stressing that his decision to join the governorship contest was driven by a desire to rebuild and transform the state. A graduate of Building from Ahmadu Bello University and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Building (FNIOB), Sambo said he could no longer remain on the sidelines while the state grapples with developmental challenges.
“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 stated.
Support for Direct Primaries
He also applauded the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for adopting direct primaries, describing the process as a true reflection of democratic principles. “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 said.
Challenging Incumbent Administration
Speaking on his chances against an incumbent administration, Sambo argued that the realities on the ground in Taraba justify the need for new leadership. “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. To liberate Taraba, I have decided to run. Above all, this is democracy,” he added.
Praise for Screening Committee
The governorship aspirant also praised the conduct of the screening committee, particularly the chairman of the gubernatorial screening panel, Dr. Benjamin Obi Nwoye, for what he described as professionalism and ethical leadership throughout the exercise. “I must candidly appreciate the humility and professionalism of the committee. Dr. Benjamin Obi Nwoye-led committee impressed me deeply. Their commitment to ethical standards, simplicity, and camaraderie was commendable. The national leadership of the party got it right, and I hope this same level of organisation is replicated at the state level,” he said.
The outcome of the screening exercise, as observed by The Guardian, is expected in the coming days ahead of the party primaries.
