Pantami Presents PDP Certificate of Return to Ex-Gov Dankwambo in Gombe

Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, has officially presented his Certificate of Return to former Gombe State Governor and elder statesman, Dr. Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) flag bearer for the 2027 governorship election in the state.

The presentation ceremony marks a significant political development in Pantami's bid to lead Gombe State on the platform of the PDP, ahead of the keenly anticipated 2027 gubernatorial election.

Pantami, who emerged as the PDP governorship candidate on the platform of the Nyesom Wike-led faction of the party, has been actively consulting with key political stakeholders and former leaders in the state as part of efforts to build broad-based support for his ambition.

The former minister's visit to Dankwambo, a former Governor of Gombe State and a top financial expert who served as Accountant-General of the Federation, is seen as a strategic move aimed at securing the political backing of one of the state's most influential PDP leaders.

During the visit, Pantami reportedly briefed the former governor on his ambition, the circumstances surrounding his emergence as the PDP candidate, and his plans for the state if elected in 2027.

He sought Dankwambo's wise counsel, political guidance, and support, acknowledging the former governor's significant contributions to the development of Gombe State during his eight-year tenure and his enduring influence within the PDP at the state and national levels.

On his part, Dankwambo was reported to have received Pantami warmly, congratulating him on his emergence as the PDP governorship candidate and pledging to play his role as a respected elder statesman in supporting the party's drive to reclaim power in the state.

The former governor reportedly urged Pantami to remain focused, run an inclusive campaign, and work closely with all stakeholders in the PDP and the broader political community in the state to ensure a successful outing in the 2027 election.

Pantami's emergence as the PDP candidate has, however, been mired in controversy, with rival factions of the party presenting different governorship candidates and questions raised about the legitimacy of his nomination.

The former minister recently defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the PDP, citing alleged unfair treatment by the APC leadership in Gombe State, and his quick emergence as the PDP candidate has triggered opposition from other governorship aspirants in the party.

Despite the internal disputes, Pantami has continued to position himself as the rightful flag bearer of the PDP, intensifying consultations and engagements with party leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and political stakeholders across the state.

The presentation of his Certificate of Return to Dankwambo is seen as part of broader efforts to unify the PDP family in Gombe State and rally support around his candidacy ahead of the 2027 polls.

Political observers note that the visit underscores the importance of party elders and former leaders in shaping political outcomes in the state, with Dankwambo's influence expected to play a significant role in the PDP's campaign strategy.

As preparations for the 2027 elections intensify, all eyes are on how the PDP resolves its internal crisis and presents a united front capable of mounting a strong challenge against other political parties in Gombe State.