Former Communications Minister Isa Ali Pantami has filed his APC governorship nomination form in Abuja. He rejected the party's consensus pick in Gombe State for the 2027 race.
The APC had announced Jamilu Gwamna as its consensus candidate days earlier. Governor Inuwa Yahaya led the stakeholders' meeting that produced this decision.
Pantami's support group, the Pantamiyya Movement, immediately challenged the arrangement. They argued it breached APC rules and democratic norms.
Speaking to BBC Hausa Service, Pantami called the process a "mere selection." He insisted the party must hold direct primaries instead.
According to him, he'll contest any unfair outcome. But he pledged to back whoever wins through a transparent process.
On Thursday, youth representatives submitted his nomination form at APC headquarters on his behalf. A statement confirmed the filing.
"Professor Isa Ali Pantami has officially submitted his governorship nomination form for Gombe State," the Pantamiyya Movement said. "Youths whose lives he's supported purchased the form."
The group noted that the submission fulfilled APC requirements for primary contestants. The primary election is scheduled for the 21st of this month.
In the statement, supporters urged Pantami's backers to stay committed. "There will be no retreat and no surrender," they declared.
Party officials haven't publicly responded to Pantami's move yet. Tensions are rising ahead of Gombe's primary election.
Political analysts say the challenge undermines the consensus approach. It could reshape the 2027 governorship race in the state.
