Some prominent members of the APC in Gombe State have expressed concerns that the party is still feeling the effects of not granting Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami the opportunity to secure the party’s governorship ticket ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to them, the decision contributed to internal divisions and weakened the party’s strength in some parts of the state.
They described Pantami as one of the most influential political figures in Gombe, with significant support among youths, religious scholars, and other segments of society.
They argued that if he had been given the chance to contest in a credible primary election, the APC would have enjoyed greater unity and stronger support from its members across the state.
Party sources stated that Pantami’s defection from the APC to the PDP has significantly altered the political landscape in Gombe, with thousands of his supporters reportedly backing his new political move. They added that the development has created opportunities for opposition parties to expand their influence in several areas of the state.
Some APC members further maintained that if the party had conducted a transparent and fair primary election that allowed all aspirants to test their popularity, it might have avoided many of the challenges it currently faces. They called on party leaders to learn from the experience and ensure fairness, justice, and unity in future internal electoral processes.
They also lamented that the party continues to experience setbacks and declining strength in some parts of Gombe State as a result of the situation.
