Gombe Gov Sacks Aides Over Councillor Assault

In a decisive move, Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State has sacked four of his Senior Special Assistants involved in the assault of a serving councillor, Abdulrahman Sheriff, representing Shamaki Ward. The move follows a viral video showing one of the aides, Adamu Danko, physically assaulting the councillor, sparking widespread outrage.

The governor acted on recommendations from an investigative committee, dismissing Adamu Abdullahi Danko (Senior Special Assistant II, Domestic), Garba Mohammed Mai Rago (Senior Special Assistant II, Political), Rabiu Abubakar (Senior Special Assistant II – Social Media), and Ali Kaya (Senior Special Assistant II, Community Relations).

The Gombe State Citizens Investigative Platform (GOCIP), an advocacy group, commended Governor Yahaya for demonstrating leadership and commitment to the rule of law. “The governor has shown a rare ‘listening ear’ and firm resolve to protect democratic values and the rule of law,” said Ibrahim Wala, GOCIP’s leader.

GOCIP praised the governor’s action as a step beyond disciplining erring aides, noting it preserved Gombe State’s image and curbed impunity. “This action saves the image of Gombe State from the stain of impunity and positions the governor as a leader worthy of international recognition,” the statement read.

However, GOCIP cautioned that deeper issues need addressing to prevent recurrence, questioning the credibility of some political appointees and highlighting the role of “political lurkers” in empowering thuggery.

The group urged Governor Yahaya to look into those who recruited the dismissed aides and continue prioritizing citizens’ interests.

GOCIP linked the governor’s actions to broader national leadership qualities, stating, “A leader who can sanitise his own house and uphold the dignity of the common man is often the one the nation calls upon for the highest ticket in Nigeria.”

The advocacy group thanked Governor Yahaya for the “decisive start” and expects a system purged of those mistaking public service for private tyranny.