African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate Bala Bello Tinka has promised free education and healthcare for vulnerable residents if elected governor of Gombe State in 2027.
Tinka made the pledge after completing a 25-day grassroots consultation tour across Gombe North and Gombe Central Senatorial Districts. During the tour, he met residents in communities, towns and wards to discuss their concerns ahead of the election.
His team visited all 52 wards across five local government areas in Gombe North and 22 wards in Gombe Central. The exercise covered more than 50 major towns and communities.
Tinka Promises Free Education From Primary to University
Under his proposed free education programme, Tinka said eligible students would receive education from primary school through university without paying tuition fees.
He said the policy would help children from disadvantaged families overcome financial barriers and gain better access to education.
The ADC candidate said his proposed programmes would reduce pressure on struggling households and improve access to essential services across the state.
Healthcare Pledges for Pregnant Women, Children and Elderly Residents
Tinka also promised free antenatal care for pregnant women if elected.
His healthcare plan includes free medical services for children aged five and below. He also pledged free healthcare for senior citizens aged 70 and above.
According to him, the proposed measures would make healthcare more accessible to vulnerable residents who may struggle to afford medical bills.
Tinka Promises to Review Alleged Land Seizures
The ADC candidate also addressed concerns over land ownership in Gombe State.
He promised to review cases of alleged land and farmland confiscation by the APC-led state government. If elected, he said his administration would work towards returning affected properties to their rightful owners where the claims are established.
Tinka maintained that farmers and other landowners deserved justice if authorities had taken their properties unfairly.
He added that protecting property rights would form part of his administration’s priorities.
Farmers to Get Affordable Fertiliser
On agriculture, Tinka promised to make fertiliser available to farmers at affordable prices and at the right time.
He said the proposed intervention would help farmers improve production and support food security across Gombe State.
The candidate also outlined plans to tackle insecurity, particularly phone snatching, street theft and other crimes affecting residents and businesses.
He pledged to strengthen efforts to protect lives and property if voters elect him governor.
ADC Candidate Seeks Support Ahead of 2027 Election
Tinka said his proposed policies aim to improve living standards and ensure residents benefit from democratic governance.
He thanked ADC members, supporters, community leaders and residents for participating in the consultation tour. He said the meetings helped his team understand the needs and expectations of people across the areas visited.
The grassroots engagement is expected to continue in Gombe South Senatorial District. The next phase will cover four local government areas and 40 wards.
Tinka urged residents to support the ADC and take part in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 governorship election.