Gombe 2027: Pantami Rejects APC 'Consensus' Governorship Pick

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State is facing internal turmoil as a significant figure, former Minister of Communications Isa Pantami, has publicly rejected the party's choice for its 2027 governorship candidate. The adoption of Jamilu Gwamna, announced after a stakeholders' meeting, was decried by Pantami as a "coronation" rather than a genuine consensus.

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While Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami… was in Abuja today evening, we heard about the emergence of a coronation which is called a ‘consensus’ for all the elective positions in Gombe State.

Pantami's objection is rooted in his interpretation of Nigeria's Electoral Act 2022. He argues that any consensus candidate must have the explicit written consent of all aspirants who have purchased and completed nomination forms. According to his statement, if even one aspirant objects, the party must proceed with direct primaries. This stance highlights a broader tension within Nigerian political parties, where consensus arrangements are often used to avoid contentious primaries but can stifle internal democracy and lead to disputes.

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Legally, there can be no valid consensus without involving the aspirants who have obtained or completed their expression of interest and nomination forms.

While Pantami urged his supporters to remain calm, he made it clear that the alleged disregard for legal provisions would not be ignored. His legal team is reportedly reviewing the situation, and supporters are being prepared for direct primaries. This development signals a potential power struggle within the Gombe APC, with Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, who is nearing the end of his second term, expected to play a crucial role in the party's succession dynamics. The situation underscores the challenges of navigating consensus politics and ensuring adherence to electoral laws within major Nigerian political parties.

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A candidate may emerge if all cleared aspirants provide written consent to step down. If even one aspirant refuses, the party must revert to a direct primary.