Pantami Emerges PDP Governorship Candidate In Gombe After APC Exit

Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, has emerged as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 election in Gombe State.

Pantami’s emergence followed his recent withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary amid allegations of irregularities and lack of transparency in the selection process.

Party sources disclosed that the former minister secured the PDP ticket after extensive consultations with influential leaders of the opposition party in Gombe State. The decision was reportedly backed by key stakeholders within the PDP, including political figures aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

Pantami was officially presented as the party’s governorship candidate during a political gathering attended by former Gombe State governor, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, alongside other party leaders and supporters.

Speaking after his emergence, Pantami said his ambition was driven by a desire to serve the people of Gombe State. He pledged that if elected governor in 2027, his administration would prioritise fairness, justice and inclusive governance.

“I contested for service to the people, and by the grace of God, we will build a government anchored on justice and equity,” he said.

Pantami is expected to face Jamilu Gwamna, who recently emerged as the governorship candidate of the APC in the state.

His movement into the PDP is already generating political tension within Gombe’s political landscape, particularly following disagreements that trailed the APC governorship primary. Pantami had openly criticised the APC process, accusing party officials of failing to conduct a transparent exercise.

The development further deepens the political rivalry ahead of the 2027 elections in the North-East state.

Pantami, a former Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), served as Minister of Communications and Digital Economy under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Political observers believe his entry into the PDP could significantly reshape the governorship contest in Gombe.