Alleged Political Intimidation: Gara Gombe Suspends Community Projects, Football Tournament
Businessman and philanthropist Ahmed Shuaibu Gara Gombe has announced the indefinite suspension of his community development initiatives across Gombe State, citing alleged political victimisation, intimidation and harassment.
The affected programmes include the ongoing Emir’s Championship Cup, which has reached the semi-final stage, and activities planned to commemorate the centenary of Hassan Central Primary School in Gombe.
In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Azubuike Nathaniel, Gara Gombe said the initiatives, implemented under the Green with Green and Gombe Grassroot Movement, were personally financed to promote grassroots development, youth empowerment, sporting excellence and peaceful coexistence.
He expressed regret over the suspension, noting that the projects had provided opportunities for young people to showcase their talents, strengthen community relationships and participate in meaningful social activities.
The philanthropist attributed his decision to what he described as sustained political victimisation allegedly involving associates of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and the governor himself.
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He further alleged that certain individuals within the judiciary and the Nigeria Police Force had been used to intimidate and harass him, claiming that the situation had assumed a political dimension following his involvement in the state’s political affairs.
According to him, the alleged hostility intensified after he publicly declared support for former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, and earlier endorsed the Gombe State Accountant-General, Aminu Yuguda, as his preferred governorship candidate.
Gara Gombe maintained that his political preferences and civic engagements should not expose him to intimidation or interfere with his contributions to community development.
He disclosed that he had formally presented his grievances before the courts, the Office of the Inspector-General of Police and the Police Service Commission, seeking appropriate intervention and legal remedies.
The businessman explained that the suspension would remain in force until further notice to enable him to address the challenges, safeguard his fundamental rights and pursue available legal options.
He reiterated that the affected projects were conceived as non-governmental community interventions aimed at empowering young people, nurturing sporting talent and promoting unity across Gombe State.
The suspension leaves the remaining fixtures of the Emir’s Championship Cup and the planned centenary activities of Hassan Central Primary School uncertain.
The allegations against the governor, his associates and the institutions mentioned remain claims made by Gara Gombe. No responses from the affected parties were included in the statement.
By PRNigeria
