Allegations of irregularities have forced former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, to withdraw from the governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress in Gombe State.
Pantami announced his decision in a statement released Tuesday, saying he stepped out of the race “under protest” over what he described as a compromised process that lacked fairness and transparency.
The former minister explained that he entered the contest after consultations and appeals from political stakeholders across the state. However, he said his campaign became increasingly concerned about the conduct of the primary after repeated attempts to obtain important details from party officials reportedly yielded no response.
According to him, several requests were submitted through his legal representatives seeking clarification on voting locations, election procedures, and the accreditation process for agents and observers, but the information was never provided.
Pantami also raised concerns about the National Assembly primaries held in the state on May 16 and 18, alleging that the exercises were marred by serious irregularities.
“During the National Assembly primaries, no actual election took place in the state,” the statement said.
“According to the testimony of several aspirants, relevant details on venues, procedures, and agent and observer accreditation were not provided, yet results were announced.”
He argued that the developments contradicted the promise made by President Bola Tinubu to guarantee transparent and credible direct primaries within the APC.
Pantami further accused party leaders in Gombe State of failing to implement those directives, claiming that grassroots members, youths, and women — whom he identified as his major support base — were sidelined in the process.
The former minister also highlighted that he was the only governorship aspirant who signed the peace accord organised by the Nigeria Police Force in Gombe on May 14, saying it demonstrated his commitment to a peaceful and orderly exercise.
Despite his withdrawal, Pantami thanked his supporters, especially young people who donated funds for the purchase of his expression of interest and nomination forms.
He appealed to them to remain peaceful and law-abiding in the interest of maintaining stability in the state.
Pantami added that the “Pantamiyya Movement” would unveil its next line of political action at a later time, while reaffirming its commitment to good governance in Gombe State and across the country.
The withdrawal letter was signed on behalf of the movement by Ibrahim M. Attahir, Esq.
The Gombe State chapter of the APC had yet to issue any response to the allegations as of the time this report was filed.