Former Communications Minister Isa Pantani vows to confront Gombe APC consensus, warns of legal battle
Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Isa Pantani said he is prepared to risk his life to challenge what he describes as an unfair consensus process by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State. Pantani, who spoke to BBC Hausa, asserted that a direct primary would secure his emergence as the party’s governorship candidate and that he would pursue legal action if the process is not transparent.
Pantani, who served as minister from 2019 to 2023, told the broadcaster: “I will challenge this injustice of the Gombe APC governorship consensus even if I lose my life doing it. If it is a direct primary, everyone knows we will win.” He added that, should the party’s internal mechanisms deny a fair contest, “I will fight it legally, a fight like never seen before in Nigeria.”
The controversy centers on the APC’s internal selection method for its gubernatorial candidate in Gombe State. Party officials have reportedly been moving toward a consensus candidate rather than holding an open primary, prompting criticism from several aspirants who argue that the approach excludes grassroots participation.
Pantani’s remarks come amid a broader debate within the APC over primary elections nationwide. In recent months, the party has faced pressure from various factions to adopt direct primaries in several states, a move seen as a way to restore confidence among party members and the electorate. Critics argue that consensus selections undermine democratic principles and fuel intra‑party disputes.
Political analysts note that Pantani’s statement may intensify competition in Gombe, where the APC is currently the dominant party. If the party ultimately adopts a direct primary, it could reshape the field of candidates and influence the dynamics of the upcoming 2027 gubernatorial race. Conversely, a move toward a consensus candidate could trigger legal challenges, as hinted by Pantani, potentially affecting the party’s internal cohesion and public perception.
Legal experts indicate that any challenge would likely be brought before the Federal High Court, which has jurisdiction over party disputes. Past cases involving APC primaries have resulted in court orders overturning consensus selections, mandating fresh primaries, or confirming the legitimacy of the party’s chosen candidate, depending on the evidence presented.
Pantani’s declaration underscores the heightened stakes of internal party politics ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Observers will watch closely how the APC resolves the Gombe gubernatorial selection, whether through a direct primary or a consensus process, and how any ensuing legal contest may set precedents for other states.
