Engineer Aliyu Mohammed, widely known as ‘Kombat’, has officially withdrawn from the 2027 governorship race in Gombe State. The announcement was made on Monday, with Mohammed citing personal commitments and responsibilities as the primary reason for stepping down from the contest.
Mohammed, who has gained recognition for his philanthropic activities through the Velocity Humanitarian Foundation, released a statement confirming his decision. He explained that the withdrawal followed careful consultation with his political allies, mentors, and close associates.
According to the statement, Mohammed acknowledged that his decision may cause disappointment among his supporters and political base. However, he emphasized that the move was necessary due to obligations that now demand his full attention.
“At this point in my journey, I am committed to several important engagements and responsibilities that require my complete focus and personal attention,” Mohammed said in the release. He added, “Your confidence and trust mean more than words can express,” in a message directed at his supporters.
Despite pulling out of the gubernatorial race, Mohammed assured his followers that his decision would not affect his dedication to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He reaffirmed his loyalty to the party, stressing that he remains an active and committed member.
He also confirmed that his humanitarian efforts through the Velocity Humanitarian Foundation would continue without interruption. The foundation has been involved in various intervention programs across the region, focusing on the empowerment of vulnerable groups and providing essential support services.
Political observers had seen Mohammed as one of the notable aspirants likely to compete strongly in the APC primaries. His foundation’s social impact and grassroots engagement had bolstered his popularity in the state. His withdrawal, therefore, is expected to reshape the dynamics within the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.
Supporters have responded with mixed reactions. Some expressed disappointment over the timing of the decision, while others lauded his transparency and commitment to addressing personal responsibilities before seeking public office. There has also been speculation that his withdrawal might pave the way for other contenders within the party to emerge more prominently in the race.
No indication has been given regarding whether Mohammed will endorse any of the remaining aspirants. His future political intentions also remain unclear, with no definitive statement on whether he plans to run for office at a later date.
In previous public addresses, Mohammed had spoken passionately about his vision for Gombe State, focusing on infrastructure, youth empowerment, and improved healthcare. His sudden exit from the political scene, at least for now, leaves a void among aspirants known for grassroots mobilization and a technocratic approach to governance.
Mohammed’s involvement in politics and humanitarian service had become closely intertwined, with the Velocity Humanitarian Foundation often serving as a platform for both development efforts and political engagement. His reassurance that the foundation’s work will continue is likely to offer some comfort to his supporters and beneficiaries of its programs.
The 2027 Gombe governorship race remains a critical contest for the APC, as it seeks to maintain influence in the region. Mohammed’s exit may alter intra-party calculations and realign local political strategies in the months leading up to the party primaries.
As of now, the APC has not released an official statement in response to Mohammed’s withdrawal. Other contenders are expected to step up their campaigns in the vacuum left by his departure.
Mohammed concluded his statement by thanking supporters and reaffirming his long-term commitment to public service, even if not through an electoral position at this time.
