The political atmosphere in Gombe State has been jolted by a disturbing new development involving a senior government aide's driver. Adamu Danko, the official driver to Governor Inuwa Yahaya's Chief of Staff, Abubakar Kari, is at the center of a fresh scandal following the leak of an audio recording containing violent threats.
From Physical Assault to Verbal Threats
This incident comes on the heels of a widely circulated video from 15 December 2025, which showed Danko brutally attacking a local councillor, Abdulrahman Abubakar Sheriff. The graphic footage depicted Danko slapping, punching, and headbutting the councillor, who was heard pleading for mercy during the assault. The attack was reportedly triggered by alleged provocative remarks made against the Chief of Staff.
The newly surfaced audio recording takes the controversy a step further. In the leak, Danko is heard issuing direct threats against some youths who had criticised Abubakar Kari. The criticism was related to alleged plans to dissolve the youths' political association. Danko specifically threatened to break the hands or legs of these critics if he met them in person, coupling these threats with insults.
Widespread Condemnation and Official Response
The initial assault video provoked intense public outrage and drew condemnation from human rights organizations. Amnesty International was among the groups that called for justice and accountability for the violent act. The emergence of the threatening audio has amplified these concerns, with critics arguing it exposes a deeper culture of impunity enjoyed by those close to power.
In response to the growing scandal, the spokesman for the Gombe State Governor, Isma’ila Uba Misilli, addressed the matter. Misilli stated that the driver's actions were personal and not sanctioned by the government. He emphasized that the state government maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards impunity of any kind.
A Test for Accountability
This series of events poses a significant challenge for the Gombe State administration. The combination of a violent physical assault and subsequent audio threats from a person attached to a high-ranking official's office raises serious questions about conduct and accountability. The public and civil society are now watching closely to see what concrete actions, beyond statements, will be taken to address these allegations and ensure such incidents are not repeated.
The situation remains a focal point for discussions on political conduct and the need for all public office holders and their staff to adhere to the rule of law.
