The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress in Gombe State, Bala-Bello Tinka, has promised to give free fuel to motorcycle and tricycle riders if he wins the 2027 election.
Tinka shared this during an interview with a local radio station in Gombe that our reporter listened to on Thursday. He said this plan is part of efforts to ease the economic struggles caused by the removal of the fuel subsidy.
The ADC candidate also announced a one-day free fuel giveaway for motorcycle and tricycle riders to celebrate Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.
He mentioned that riders can get the fuel at selected filling stations in Gombe from 6am to 6pm on October 1, 2026.
"On October 1st, from 6 am to 6 pm, any Okada rider and Keke Napep operator should go to our designated filling stations and collect fuel free of charge. This is our little way of celebrating with Nigerians and reducing their suffering," Tinka said.
He explained that transport operators are among those hit hardest by the fuel subsidy removal. He added that this gesture aims to help them celebrate Independence Day without worrying about fuel costs for that day.
Tinka also promised that, if elected, his government would continue the free fuel plan as part of its support for motorcycle and tricycle riders.
Aside from the fuel support, the businessman-turned-politician shared other policies he wants to implement if he becomes governor.
On healthcare, Tinka promised free medical care for children under five years old and seniors over 70.
"We will provide free healthcare for our children under the age of five and for our elderly parents. No child should die because the parents cannot afford hospital bills, and no old person should be left to die," he said.
On agriculture, Tinka said his government would change how fertiliser is sourced by buying it from local wholesalers instead of directly from manufacturers.
"If we buy from local wholesalers, the money will stay in Gombe, it will circulate among our people and boost our local economy. That is how to grow Gombe," Tinka said.
He added that this plan would help local agro-dealers and create jobs in the agricultural sector.
Tinka also promised to focus on hiring local contractors for government projects. He said outside contractors would only be used if local experts lack the necessary skills.
"We have competent engineers, builders and contractors in Gombe. We will patronise them to help our local experts grow. We will only go outside when it is absolutely necessary," he stated.
Regarding the ongoing water shortage in Gombe city and other areas, Tinka said he would find a lasting solution instead of sticking with temporary fixes.
He promised to carry out a thorough study to discover the root causes of the water crisis and create plans to solve it for good.
"Water is life, but our people have suffered for too long without water. We will not do temporary fixes. We will identify the root cause and bring an end to this perennial water scarcity in Gombe," he assured.
Tinka called on residents to support the ADC in the 2027 general elections. He promised to run a government that focuses on the people's welfare.
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