The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe State has scheduled a fresh governorship primary for September 29, 2026, following a Federal High Court order nullifying the process that produced Professor Isa Ali Pantami as the party’s candidate for the 2027 election.
The party also cleared Pantami, Khamisu Ahmed Mailantarki and Usman Aliyu Garry to participate in the rescheduled primary.
The State Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Abdulkadir Ahmed Dukku, announced the development in a statement issued on Friday.
A Federal High Court sitting in Gombe had on Thursday ordered the party to conduct a fresh governorship primary after nullifying Pantami’s emergence as its candidate. The suit was filed by Garry, who challenged the validity of the process through which Pantami emerged.
Announcing the new date, Dukku said all eligible party members would be expected to participate in the exercise.
“Following the nullification, the PDP wishes to inform all its card-carrying members that there will be a gubernatorial repeat primary election on Tuesday, 29th September, 2026. All eligible voters are expected to assemble at their respective ward areas to vote an aspirant of their choice,” Dukku said.
In a separate statement, the party said it had received the court judgment in good faith and respected the decision of the court.
The PDP also welcomed the aspect of the judgment that validated Pantami’s membership and entry procedures into the party, as well as his participation in the May 2026 primary process.
“The judgment is presently receiving the attention of the party leadership and contestants. While the legal implications and directives contained in the judgment are being studied, we urge all members, supporters and stakeholders of our great party in Gombe State to remain calm, peaceful and united,” the statement added.
Dukku further said the judgment did not affect Pantami’s eligibility to participate in the fresh primary.
He therefore urged party members to avoid speculation and statements that could heighten tension, assuring that the party would take steps within the law to protect its interests and uphold its democratic processes.
The court had ordered the PDP to conduct another governorship primary in accordance with its constitution, guidelines and relevant electoral provisions.
Pantami had emerged as the PDP’s candidate through voice affirmation at the party’s May 2026 governorship primary before the process was challenged in court.
The fresh exercise will determine the PDP’s candidate for the 2027 Gombe State governorship election, subject to any further legal proceedings.