The Yobe State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mohammed Gadaka, has sparked controversy after telling married women to leave their husbands if they prevent them from voting for the party in the 2027 elections.
Gadaka made the remark while addressing supporters and new members during an APC mobilisation event in Nangere, Yobe State.
He reportedly told women whose husbands opposed their decision to vote for the APC to leave their marriages, adding that he would pay the bride price and marry any woman who took such a step.
The comment has generated reactions over its implications for marriage, family relationships and political participation.
Gadaka later withdraws statement
Following the backlash, Gadaka withdrew the remark and apologised for what he said.
In a video shared by the Director-General of Press and Media Affairs to Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, the APC chairman explained that his comment was intended as a joke.
He said the statement was connected to a traditional form of banter between his Ngamo ethnic group and the Kare-Kare-speaking community.
Gadaka maintained that he did not intend to encourage married women to divorce their husbands because of political differences.
Remark comes ahead of 2027 elections
The incident comes as political parties intensify mobilisation activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Gadaka’s statement has also drawn attention to the language politicians use when addressing supporters, particularly when political messaging intersects with sensitive issues such as marriage, religion and family relationships.
While the APC chairman has since withdrawn the comment, his initial statement has continued to generate debate among residents and political observers in Yobe State.
