JUST IN: Pantami Camp Reacts As INEC Restores Ex-Minister’s Name On Gombe Governorship List

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has restored the name of former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, to the list of candidates for the 2027 Gombe State governorship election, subject to the outcome of pending court cases.

The development marks a fresh turn in the dispute over the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidacy in Gombe State, with Pantami’s legal team expressing confidence despite the legal and political challenges surrounding his ambition.

Reacting to the development, a member of Pantami’s legal team, Barrister Attahir Ibrahim, told LEADERSHIP that he had remained unperturbed by the controversy, describing the restoration of the former minister’s name as a welcome development.

“Though I have never been concerned, it is something to be happy about,” Attahir said in an interview.

The lawyer attributed his confidence to his belief that political power ultimately rests with God, arguing that political struggles and attempts to prevent individuals from attaining leadership positions were not new in history.

“Anyone who understands the history of power and political struggles around the world would not be surprised or frightened by anything that happens. This is because I know that power belongs to God. If He decides to give someone power, no matter what anyone does, they cannot prevent it,” he said.

Attahir also pointed to what he described as repeated legal disputes and reversals by parties involved in the controversy, maintaining that his team remained hopeful that the process would produce a favourable outcome.

He further dismissed suggestions that the prolonged uncertainty over Pantami’s candidacy might have weakened the enthusiasm of his supporters.

According to him, the level of public interest in the former minister extends beyond his immediate political associates, with people from different communities and states reaching out to inquire about the developments.

Attahir said some of those contacting him were relatives, friends and supporters who did not even know Pantami personally, adding that a radio station had also approached him for an interview on the matter.

The latest development follows INEC’s earlier omission of some governorship and State Houses of Assembly candidates over alleged non-compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 requiring political parties to submit their membership registers.

The commission reportedly received petitions from political parties challenging the omissions. Although the final figures were still being compiled by INEC’s legal department ahead of an official statement, sources said over 30 petitions were successful.