By Muhammad A. Abubakar Supporters of former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, have reje...
By Muhammad A. Abubakar
Supporters of former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, have rejected what they described as a “so-called consensus” arrangement for elective positions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by Professor Suleiman Mohammed on behalf of members of the Pantamiyya Movement, the group questioned the legality of the process, arguing that it failed to comply with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 governing candidate nomination.
The group maintained that a valid consensus could only emerge where all cleared aspirants willingly agree in writing to step down for a single candidate, noting that any deviation from this requirement renders the process invalid.
“Legally, there can be no valid consensus without involving aspirants who have obtained or completed their expression of interest and nomination forms,” the statement said.
Citing Section 84(2) of the Electoral Act, the group stressed that political parties are limited to two modes of candidate selection—consensus and direct primaries—warning that “coronation” is not recognised under the law.
According to the statement, where any aspirant declines to step down, the party is obligated to conduct direct primaries in which all registered members participate.
The supporters further described the development as contrary to party directives and the position of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning that such actions undermine internal democracy.
While urging their supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, the group said it would not ignore what it termed “a total disregard for the provisions of the law.”
They also disclosed that preparations were underway for possible direct primaries, alongside efforts to address “major challenges” within the party’s membership database in Gombe State.
In addition, the group revealed that its legal team had commenced action to challenge the process and ensure compliance with electoral guidelines.
The statement concluded with a call for adherence to justice and due process, describing the situation as critical to safeguarding democratic principles within the party and the state.
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