The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Yobe State, Muhammad Gadaka, has asked women in the state not to allow their husbands to stop them from voting for the party in the 2027 general election.
Gadaka made the remark on Thursday during a political rally in Nangere Local Government Area of the state.
He said women whose husbands divorced them because of their decision to vote for the APC would receive his support, including payment of their bride price.
Speaking in Hausa, the APC chairman said, “Tell your sister that if her husband does not agree and divorces her, I will pay her bride price and marry her.”
Gadaka also spoke about the APC’s political strength in Yobe, saying the party’s foundation in the state had remained strong over the years.
He attributed the party’s continued influence to prayers offered by its supporters about two decades ago and said new members would have opportunities to attain leadership positions.
However, the comment about marriage drew criticism, prompting Gadaka to issue an apology later on Thursday.
In a 43-second video, he said his statement had been misunderstood and explained that it was made in reference to the traditional joking relationship between the Gamawa and Kare-Kare communities.
“My name is Muhammad Gadaka, and I am from Fika Local Government Area. As you may know, there is a traditional joking relationship between the Gamawa and Kare-Kare tribes,” he said.
He added that the remark was made during a programme organised in Zone B of Nangere Local Government Area.
“However, my statement was misunderstood by the public. As a leader, I want to clarify that I reject that misunderstood statement, and I sincerely apologise to everyone,” Gadaka said.
The controversy comes as political parties and their candidates intensify mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general election, with several politicians coming under scrutiny over remarks made during campaigns and public engagements.
