Ex-transport minister, Jaji screened for Taraba governorship primary election

The former minister of transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo, was successfully screened to contest for the Taraba State governorship race under the platform of the All Progressive Congress (APC); the screening was conducted at the Kaduna State House on Sunday, May 10, 2026.

Jaji, a graduate of Building from Ahmadu Bello University and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Building (FNIOB), said his ambition is driven by a commitment to rebuild and reposition Taraba State for sustainable growth and prosperity.

His screening came as the third aspirant under the APC, after the screening of the incumbent governor, Agbu Kefas of Taraba State, and philanthropist Chief David Sabo Kente; all are aspiring to clinch the APC ticket to contest for the 2027 governorship election.

Speaking after the screening exercise, he lamented what he described as the slow pace of development in Taraba State since its creation 35 years ago, noting that the state has yet to attain the level of progress expected among its peers.

“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.

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While addressing journalists, the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) commended the party leadership for adopting direct primaries rather than consensus or indirect primaries.

“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.

Responding to questions regarding his chances against a sitting governor, Jaji maintained that the state’s developmental realities speak for themselves.

“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.

Reflecting on the screening process, Jaji praised the professionalism and conduct of the committee members, particularly the chairman of the gubernatorial screening panel, Dr Benjamin Obi Nwoye.

“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 is expected in the coming days ahead of the party primaries.