In a decisive move underscoring a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has approved the immediate dismissal of four of his senior aides. This action follows the conclusion of an investigation into the physical assault on Honourable Abdulrahman Abubakar Sheriff, the Councillor representing Shamaki Ward in Gombe Local Government Area.
Investigation Confirms Assault, Leads to Dismissals
The incident, which sparked widespread public outrage, involved Adamu Abdullahi Danko, a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor. Danko was captured on camera physically attacking Councillor Sheriff in an alley within the Gombe metropolis. The viral video prompted strong condemnation from the public, civil society organisations, and Amnesty International, with many demanding a thorough and transparent probe.
Responding to the pressure, Governor Yahaya constituted a special committee to investigate the assault. The findings of this committee, which were further corroborated by reports from security agencies, provided the basis for the Governor's firm action. The Director-General of Press Affairs for Gombe Government House, Ismaila Uba Misilli, confirmed the dismissals in an official statement released on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.
Affected Aides and Immediate Handover Orders
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, conveyed the Governor's directive, naming the four dismissed aides. The affected officials are:
- Adamu Abdullahi Danko (Senior Special Assistant II, Domestic)
- Garba Mohammed Mai Rago (Senior Special Assistant II, Political)
- Rabiu Sulaiman Abubakar (Senior Special Assistant II, Social Media)
- Ali Ibrahim Baban Kaya (Senior Special Assistant II, Community Relations)
Governor Yahaya directed that the disengagement take immediate effect. Furthermore, all the affected officers have been instructed to hand over any government property in their possession to the appropriate authorities without any delay.
Governor Reaffirms Commitment to Rule of Law
In the statement, Governor Inuwa Yahaya strongly reaffirmed his administration's unwavering stance against violence, misconduct, and the abuse of public office. He stressed that any actions capable of threatening public peace or undermining citizens' confidence in the government will not be condoned.
The Governor assured the people of Gombe State of his government's steadfast commitment to the principles of the rule of law, accountability, and peaceful coexistence. He emphasised that his administration will always take decisive measures to safeguard public order and sustain the state's hard-earned stability and harmony.
This swift disciplinary action is seen as a clear message from the Gombe State Government that no individual, regardless of position, is above the law and that ethical conduct remains a paramount expectation for all public office holders.
