TDIn a dramatic turn of events, , a former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami has announced his withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries in Gombe State.
Pantami cited violations of the Electoral Act 2026 and the party’s failure to provide transparency and communication essential for a credible contest.
He said his decision followed “extensive consultations with stakeholders and careful reflection” on the unfolding developments in Gombe State.
He accused the APC leadership of disregarding the law and undermining the democratic process.
Loyalty and Peace Accord
Pantami emphasized his loyalty to the APC.
He noted that he had fully participated in the process, met all requirements, and adhered to party guidelines.
He was the only aspirant to send a representative to the Peace Accord organized by the Nigeria Police Force in Gombe on May 14, 2026.
According to him, his representative was the only one who signed the accord.
Despite this, Pantami said he was repeatedly denied access to critical information.
Letters sent by his solicitors to party organs requesting details about the primaries went unanswered.
He argued that this lack of communication violated both the Electoral Act and party rules.
Pantami Protests Against Electoral Violations
Pantami pointed to irregularities during the APC’s direct primaries for National Assembly seats on May 16 and 18, 2026.
He claimed grassroots members were sidelined there.
According to him, no actual elections took place, yet results were announced.
He accused the party of failing to provide details on accreditation, voting, and collation procedures, despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive that primaries must be free, fair, and credible.
“Non-compliance with the Electoral Act 2026 and the party guidelines renders the exercise unsafe and illegitimate,” Pantami declared.
Grassroots Support and Crowdfunding
Pantami expressed gratitude to the youth and supporters who crowdfunded his nomination forms, with contributions ranging from ₦5,000 to ₦4 million.
He assured them that their sacrifices would not be in vain, pledging to continue the struggle for good governance.
Next Steps for Pantami and Supporters
The Pantamiyya Movement, his political base, will announce its next course of action soon.
Pantami urged his followers to remain united, stressing that peaceful protest is a fundamental pillar of democracy.
His withdrawal underscores the deepening internal crisis within the APC and raises questions about the credibility of its primaries in Gombe State.
