Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has withdrawn from the governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State, alleging irregularities in the conduct of the process.
Pantami announced his decision after expressing concerns over what he described as actions that did not reflect fairness and transparency in the build-up to the party’s governorship primary election.
His withdrawal has stirred political discussions in Gombe State, where many party supporters had expected him to emerge as one of the strongest contenders for the APC governorship ticket ahead of the next election cycle.
In a statement explaining his decision, Pantami said he had entered the race with genuine intentions to contribute to the development of Gombe State and provide leadership that would improve governance and public service delivery. However, he stated that developments within the party made it difficult for him to continue in the contest.
The former minister said his decision was reached after consultations with family members, political associates, supporters, and trusted advisers. According to him, remaining in the race under circumstances he believed were unfair would not align with his principles.
Although he did not provide extensive details of the alleged irregularities, Pantami suggested that some aspects of the primary process failed to meet expectations of openness and equal opportunity for all aspirants.
His withdrawal comes at a critical period for the APC in Gombe State as political interests continue to shape preparations for the next governorship election.
Political observers believe Pantami’s exit may alter the balance of power within the party and strengthen the chances of other aspirants still in contention for the ticket. Before his withdrawal, many supporters had viewed him as a major political figure with strong influence, especially because of his national profile and previous service in government.
Pantami became widely known during his time in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, where he oversaw Nigeria’s digital economy and telecommunications sector.
During his period as minister, he played a key role in policies aimed at improving digital identity systems, increasing internet access, strengthening cybersecurity measures, and encouraging the growth of technology-based businesses across Nigeria.
His ministry also supervised important national projects related to digital innovation, including efforts to improve broadband penetration and digital skills development.
Because of this background, many supporters believed Pantami could bring technocratic leadership and administrative experience to Gombe State if elected governor.
Before officially joining the race, there had been growing calls from supporters and political groups urging him to contest the governorship election. Several supporters argued that his experience at the federal level placed him in a strong position to attract development and investments to the state.
However, his withdrawal now raises fresh questions about political unity within the APC structure in Gombe.
Some political analysts believe internal disagreements and power struggles within political parties often affect primary elections in Nigeria. Party primaries have repeatedly generated controversy across the country, with allegations ranging from imposition of candidates to unfair delegate selection and manipulation of voting processes.
In many instances, disagreements arising from party primaries have resulted in court cases, defections, and internal divisions that weaken political parties before general elections.
For the APC in Gombe State, Pantami’s withdrawal could become a major issue if his supporters feel dissatisfied with how events unfolded.
Political watchers say the party leadership may need to work hard to maintain unity and prevent possible cracks among party loyalists, especially given Pantami’s influence among sections of party members.
Gombe State has remained politically important in the North-East region, with competition for political leadership often attracting strong interest from influential politicians and party stakeholders.
The APC has maintained political strength in the state in recent years, but analysts say internal harmony will remain important if the party hopes to retain public confidence ahead of future elections.
Meanwhile, reactions have continued to trail Pantami’s decision.
Some supporters expressed disappointment over his withdrawal, arguing that his participation could have introduced a fresh leadership approach focused on technology, education, and economic growth. Others, however, insisted that political processes must be allowed to continue and that aspirants dissatisfied with outcomes have the right to make personal decisions.
A number of political commentators also noted that Pantami’s move may not necessarily signal the end of his political ambitions. According to them, influential political figures sometimes step back from one contest only to remain active in public service or future political engagements.
There is also speculation about whether Pantami could still play a strategic role in the political direction of the APC in Gombe State through endorsements or consultations with other stakeholders.
Despite stepping away from the governorship race, Pantami maintained appreciation for supporters who encouraged him throughout the process. He reportedly thanked those who believed in his vision and urged them to remain peaceful and committed to the progress of the state.
His supporters are now expected to closely monitor developments within the APC to determine the next political direction.
As the governorship race gathers momentum, political attention in Gombe is likely to remain focused on how the APC manages internal concerns and whether fresh controversies may emerge from the party’s primary process.
For now, Pantami’s withdrawal marks one of the biggest political developments in the state and has added a new twist to the unfolding contest for political leadership in Gombe.