INEC Restores Pantami's Candidacy for Gombe Governorship

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has restored the name of Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, to the list of candidates for the 2027 governorship election in Gombe State, contingent on the resolution of pending court cases. This decision represents a significant development in the ongoing dispute regarding the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidacy.

Barrister Attahir Ibrahim, a member of Pantami’s legal team, expressed optimism about the situation, stating that the restoration is a positive outcome. He emphasized that political power ultimately rests with God and dismissed concerns that the uncertainty surrounding Pantami’s candidacy might diminish his supporters' enthusiasm.

Attahir noted that public interest in Pantami transcends his immediate political circle, with inquiries coming from various communities. This restoration follows INEC's earlier actions regarding candidates' compliance with the Electoral Act 2026, which led to over 30 successful petitions challenging candidate omissions.