Residents of Gashaka, Kurmi, and Sardauna local government areas in Taraba State erupted in celebration early Monday after former Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly, Abel Peter Diah, emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Gashaka/Kurmi/Sardauna Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Diah, who currently represents Mbamnga Constituency in the Taraba State House of Assembly, secured a decisive victory in the just-concluded APC primary election, defeating other aspirants from the constituency by a wide margin. The outcome triggered widespread jubilation across the constituency, with supporters and party loyalists expressing optimism that Diah's emergence signals a new chapter of political and infrastructural development for the area.
Transparent Primary Process Praised
Several electorate members who spoke with journalists commended the electoral committee and party officials for ensuring a transparent and credible primary process. According to them, the conduct of the election provided a level playing field for all aspirants and reflected the democratic principles of the party.
Residents described Diah as an experienced legislator whose track record in Mbamnga Constituency has inspired confidence among voters in the federal constituency. Speaking on the development, a supporter, Usmane Salisu, said the people believe Diah's representation at the National Assembly would bring long-awaited development to the area.
“We are very certain that our tears will be wiped away if Abel Peter Diah eventually steps into the hallowed chamber of the National Assembly,” Salisu stated.
Another electorate member, Jubrila Adamu, said the emergence of Diah as the APC flagbearer had brought relief and renewed hope to the people of the constituency. According to Adamu, many residents have been yearning for purposeful leadership capable of attracting meaningful projects and addressing critical challenges affecting the people of Gashaka, Kurmi, and Sardauna councils.
Massive Mobilization Ahead of 2027
Supporters further pledged to mobilise massively for the APC candidate during the forthcoming 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that Diah possesses the political experience and leadership qualities needed to effectively represent the constituency at the federal level.
Political observers in the state noted that Diah's victory in the APC primary may significantly reshape the political landscape of the constituency, considering his influence within the party and his legislative experience. The Gashaka/Kurmi/Sardauna Federal Constituency remains one of the key political blocs in Taraba State, with major parties already strategising ahead of the 2027 polls.
