Pantami withdraws from APC Gombe governorship primary

Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Gombe State, citing alleged violations of electoral guidelines and lack of transparency in the process.

Pantami announced his withdrawal through a statement issued by the Pantamiyya Movement, saying his decision followed what he described as repeated failures by the party to provide essential information required for a credible primary election.

He alleged that despite complying with all party requirements and participating in internal processes, 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 or responded to.

Pantami 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.

He stated that the situation amounted to a breach of the Electoral Act 2026 and the APC guidelines, arguing that the process could not guarantee a free and fair contest.

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 ahead of the primaries.

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.