Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has withdrawn from the governorship primary election of the All Progressives Congress in Gombe State, citing alleged irregularities and lack of transparency in the process.
Pantami, who had earlier rejected the consensus arrangement that produced Jamilu Gwamna as the preferred candidate, announced his withdrawal barely days before the party’s governorship primary scheduled for May 21, 2026.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Pantamiyya Movement by Barrister Ibrahim M. Attahir, the former minister said his decision followed extensive consultations with stakeholders and concerns over what he described as violations of the Electoral Act and APC guidelines.
According to the statement, Pantami complained that party officials failed to provide crucial information needed for a credible primary election, including details on accreditation procedures, voting arrangements and collation centres.
The statement noted that several letters written by his legal representatives to relevant organs of the party seeking clarification on the conduct of the direct primary were allegedly ignored.
“When Prof. Pantami accepted calls from leaders, youth, women and other stakeholders to contest for the governorship of Gombe State, he demonstrated loyalty to the APC by participating fully, meeting requirements and following laid-down guidelines and procedures,” the statement read.
It further stated that Pantami was the only governorship aspirant who sent a representative to the peace accord organised by the Nigeria Police Force in Gombe State on May 14, where the accord was reportedly signed.
Despite this, the statement alleged that the former minister was repeatedly denied access to critical details about the primary election process.
Pantami also raised concerns over the conduct of the recent National Assembly direct primaries in the state, alleging that grassroots party members, especially women and youths who formed the bulk of his support base, were sidelined.
“The people of Gombe State witnessed what transpired during the direct primary elections for the National Assembly held on May 16 and 18. The strength of Pantami lies in his massive grassroots support, particularly among women and youth. Unfortunately, members at the grassroots were sidelined in the process,” the statement added.
The former minister maintained that his withdrawal was a peaceful protest against what he described as non-compliance with democratic principles and electoral laws.
He also claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had emphasised the need for free, fair and credible direct primaries, but alleged that such directives were not implemented in Gombe State.
Pantami, however, expressed appreciation to supporters, especially youths who reportedly crowdfunded the purchase of his nomination and expression of interest forms.
He urged his supporters across the state to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding, assuring them that the Pantamiyya Movement would soon unveil its next political steps.
