By Paul Joseph
Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in Gombe State, citing alleged lack of transparency and non-compliance with electoral guidelines.
Pantami announced his decision on Tuesday through a statement issued by Barrister Ibrahim M. Attahir on behalf of the Pantamiyya Movement, saying the process failed to meet the standards required under the Electoral Act 2026.
He explained that the decision followed wide consultations with supporters, political stakeholders, and members of his campaign structure across the state.
According to him, although he actively participated in the race and complied with APC guidelines, critical details surrounding the conduct of the direct primary were not communicated to aspirants in advance.
Pantami alleged that repeated requests by his legal team for clarification on accreditation procedures, voting processes, collation centres, and observer guidelines were ignored by the party leadership.
He further claimed that recent APC National Assembly primaries in Gombe State were poorly conducted, adding that many grassroots members were excluded and that outcomes were announced without clear adherence to voting procedures.
The former minister maintained that his political strength was rooted in widespread support from youths and women across the state, noting that many of his supporters even raised funds through crowdfunding to facilitate his nomination bid.
He expressed gratitude to his supporters, campaign coordinators, community leaders, and various women and youth groups who backed his aspiration.
Pantami also urged his followers to remain peaceful and law-abiding, stressing that democracy must be anchored on fairness, justice, and adherence to the rule of law.
He added that the Pantamiyya Movement would soon announce its next political steps following his withdrawal from the race.
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