Professor Isa Ali Pantami has been declared the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for Gombe State in the 2027 general election.The announcement was made on Tuesday at a gathering in the state, with former Governor Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo in attendance. Pantami had earlier withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Gombe. Reports indicate that after stepping down from the APC race, he reached out to PDP stakeholders in the state, particularly those aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.His request for the PDP ticket was reportedly granted, leading to his formal declaration as the party’s candidate.
This move has surprised many political observers, especially given Pantami’s long-standing association with the APC and his previous criticisms of the PDP. Pantami, a former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, remains a prominent figure in northern politics. His entry into the PDP race is expected to significantly alter the political dynamics in Gombe State ahead of 2027.
While some PDP members have welcomed him, others within the party have raised concerns about the process through which he secured the ticket. There are also reports that some aspirants who had been nursing ambitions within the PDP are unhappy with the development.On social media, the announcement has generated mixed reactions. Some users have described it as political pragmatism, while others have labelled it as desperation, pointing to old videos where Pantami had strongly criticised the PDP.
The development highlights the fluid and transactional nature of Nigerian politics, where politicians frequently cross party lines in pursuit of electoral opportunities.For the PDP in Gombe, Pantami’s candidacy could boost the party’s visibility and attract new supporters. However, it may also create internal friction if not properly managed.
For the APC, the loss of Pantami to the opposition could weaken its position in the state, especially if he successfully mobilises support.It remains to be seen how the APC will respond and whether Pantami’s adoption by the PDP will face any legal or procedural challenges.Political analysts say the coming weeks will reveal whether this move strengthens or divides the opposition in Gombe State.
