The political atmosphere in Gombe State took a dramatic turn on Thursday as the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, formally entered the governorship race. Despite a recent move by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to install a consensus candidate, Pantami’s team arrived at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja to submit his nomination documents.
This move signals a direct confrontation with the state party leadership, which had previously endorsed Jamilu Gwamna following a high-level stakeholders' meeting chaired by Governor Inuwa Yahaya. While the party sought a unified front, Pantami’s loyalists, operating under the "Pantamiyya Movement," labeled the selection process a violation of democratic norms. The group insists that the will of the people must prevail through a fair contest rather than a closed-door appointment.
Speaking on the development via the BBC Hausa Service, the former minister voiced his disapproval of the current internal party dynamics.
"The process was a mere selection and not a democratic consensus," Pantami stated. He further emphasized his commitment to the rule of law, saying, "I will challenge what is clearly an injustice. I am ready to support whoever emerges, provided the person comes through a transparent and credible primary process."
The nomination form was reportedly purchased and submitted by a coalition of youth groups who claim their lives were transformed by Pantami’s previous initiatives. A formal statement released through his official X handle confirmed that the submission is in line with the APC's requirements for the upcoming primary election scheduled for May 21.
As the primary date approaches, the tension between the "Pantamiyya" camp and the state government house continues to rise. Supporters of the former minister have adopted a defiant stance, declaring there will be "no retreat and no surrender" in their quest to secure the party's ticket. This internal rift now places the APC national leadership in a delicate position as they navigate the competing interests within the Gombe State chapter.