Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State, has pulled out of the race to govern the state under the ruling party.
Pantami, who rejected the consensus arrangement that led to the choice of Jamilu Gwamna, had earlier vowed to challenge what he described as injustice in the party.
However, in a statement issued by Barrister Ibrahim M. Attahir, on behalf of the ‘Pantamiyya Movement’, the aspirant said he decided not to take part in the primaries after extensive consultations. He cited alleged violations of the Electoral Act 2026 and failure by party officials to provide conditions necessary for a credible primary process.
Pantami alleged that he was denied access to key details such as accreditation procedures, voting arrangements, and collation centres ahead of the scheduled primary. According to him, letters sent to relevant party organs seeking clarification on the conduct of the direct primaries were not acknowledged.
He further claimed that grassroots members were excluded from the process, referencing concerns raised during earlier National Assembly primaries in Gombe State, where some aspirants alleged irregularities in the conduct of the exercise.
The former minister also noted that he was the only governorship aspirant who sent a representative to sign the peace accord organised by the Nigeria Police Force in Gombe State, on May 14.
Pantami expressed appreciation to his supporters, including youth and women who contributed funds to support his nomination, and urged them to remain peaceful and law-abiding despite his withdrawal.
He added that his political movement would announce its next steps in due course, reaffirming his commitment to good governance and democratic principles in Gombe State and beyond.
