Pantami Camp Rejects ‘Consensus’ Move in Gombe, Insists on Direct Primaries

By Hassan Lawan Koli. May 3, 2026

Supporters of former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, have rejected reports of a “consensus” arrangement for elective positions in Gombe State, describing the move as unlawful and inconsistent with Nigeria’s electoral framework.

In a statement issued on Sunday on behalf of the Pantamiyya Movement, Professor Suleiman Mohammed said the group received news of the alleged consensus while Pantami was in Abuja, stressing that the process did not involve key aspirants.

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

Citing provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, the group argued that political parties are limited to only two lawful methods of candidate nomination.

According to the statement, Section 84(2) of the Act recognizes consensus and direct primaries as the only acceptable options.

It explained that for consensus to be valid, all cleared aspirants must voluntarily submit written consent to step down for a single candidate. Failure of any aspirant to agree, it added, automatically necessitates the conduct of direct primaries.

“Consensus is only valid where all aspirants agree in writing. If even one refuses, the party must revert to direct primaries where all registered members can vote,” the statement said.

The group further maintained that the alleged arrangement, described as a “coronation,” contradicts not only the law but also directives from the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Describing the development as unjust, the statement warned that actions perceived to undermine due process could threaten internal party democracy.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” it stated.

The Pantamiyya Movement, however, called on its supporters to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding, assuring that steps are being taken to address the situation.

“We urge our supporters to remain calm. Our legal team is already working to address the observed challenges, including issues related to the APC database in the state,” the statement added.

The group also urged members to prepare for the possibility of direct primaries, expressing confidence that due process would ultimately prevail.

The statement concluded with prayers for peace, unity, and progress in Gombe State and Nigeria as a whole.