Gombe ADC candidate offers one-day free fuel scheme to transport operators

African Democratic Congress governorship candidate Bala Tinka provided free fuel to commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators in Gombe State as part of Nigeria’s Independence Day activities. The one-day intervention ran from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

at designated filling stations in Gombe metropolis. Tinka announced the plan during an interview with a local radio station monitored by Premium Times. He said the initiative was intended to reduce the pressure of higher petrol and transport costs on Okada and Keke Napep operators.

He described it as a modest contribution to the independence celebrations and said it could form part of a broader palliative programme if he wins the 2027 election. Tinka also presented policy proposals on healthcare. He promised free treatment for children below five and adults aged 70 or older, saying vulnerable residents should not be prevented from receiving care because they cannot pay medical bills.

On agriculture, he said a future ADC administration would review the procurement and distribution of fertiliser. He proposed greater use of local wholesalers and agro-dealers, arguing that purchasing within the state would keep money circulating in Gombe. The candidate also promised to give qualified indigenous contractors preference in government projects.

He said contracts requiring expertise unavailable in Gombe could still be awarded elsewhere, but local engineers, builders and contractors would be prioritised where they had the capacity to deliver. Tinka said his administration would seek a lasting response to persistent water shortages. He proposed identifying the causes of the shortages before implementing measures, rather than relying on temporary repairs.

Tinka emerged as the ADC’s governorship candidate after the party’s primary in May 2026. He urged residents to support an inclusive administration focused on welfare and local economic activity.