Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami has condemned what he describes as attempts to undermine the integrity of the upcoming direct primaries in which he is a candidate. In a statement released on Saturday, he expressed concern over organized efforts aimed at disrupting the “free, fair, and credible” selection process. The statement, issued on behalf of Professor Suleiman Mohammed of the Pantami Movement, warned that individuals fearing the outcome of the primaries might mount “sponsored petitions and press conferences” to challenge the legitimacy of the process.
Pantami indicated that his camp anticipates coordinated media attacks intended to delegitimize the primaries. He also revealed that certain actors had attempted to offer financial inducements to influence the election. Notably, some individuals who were approached and offered money rejected the proposal and disclosed the agenda, suggesting that the alleged scheme was exposed from within. Additionally, Pantami referenced a televised interview aired the previous day, asserting that it addressed “the relevant questions” raised by the media. While he did not detail the specifics of the interview, he implied that it clarified his position and countered misinformation circulating about the primaries.
In urging his supporters to remain calm, Pantami emphasized a non-violent and prayerful approach. He stated, “Our supporters should always remain calm, peaceful, and prayerful in all situations,” cautioning that any escalation would only benefit those seeking to destabilize the process. These remarks come as Nigeria’s political parties prepare for a series of direct primaries scheduled for the coming weeks. Election officials have repeatedly stressed the importance of transparency and adherence to electoral regulations, while opposition groups have called for increased scrutiny of internal party affairs.
Observers note that allegations of financial inducement and political pressure are not new in Nigeria’s electoral landscape. However, the public condemnation by a high-profile candidate highlights the heightened stakes of this particular primary cycle, which could significantly influence the balance of power within the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections. If Pantami’s concerns prove to be valid, election authorities may be compelled to investigate potential breaches of the Electoral Act. Conversely, if the claims cannot be substantiated, it could enhance the credibility of the primaries and reinforce confidence in the party’s internal democracy. As the date for the direct primaries approaches, attention remains focused on how the alleged disruptions will be addressed and whether the process will indeed unfold as “free, fair, and credible,” as asserted by Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami.
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