Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has submitted his governorship nomination form at the national secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja, despite the party’s earlier move to adopt a consensus candidate in Gombe State ahead of the 2027 elections.
This comes shortly after the APC in Gombe State announced Jamilu Gwamna as its preferred consensus flagbearer following a stakeholders’ meeting led by Governor Inuwa Yahaya.
The decision was confirmed in a statement by Ismaila Misilli, who said the party reached the agreement during an enlarged meeting of stakeholders.
However, a support group known as the Pantamiyya Movement, loyal to Pantami, rejected the consensus arrangement, insisting it does not follow internal party rules or democratic principles.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Pantami described the process as a selection rather than a proper primary election, adding that he supports a direct and transparent voting process.
He also said he would continue to challenge any process he considers unfair, while pledging support for whoever eventually emerges through a credible primary.
In a post shared on Pantami’s official X account on Thursday, it was confirmed that members of his support group submitted the nomination form on his behalf at the APC national headquarters.
The statement said the form was purchased for him by young supporters who claim they have benefited from his mentorship and empowerment initiatives.
It further explained that a delegation of youths formally submitted the form as part of the requirements for the APC governorship primary scheduled for later this month, where the party’s candidate for Gombe State will be chosen.
The group also urged supporters to remain committed ahead of the primary election, stressing determination and unity within the camp.