The Peoples Democratic Party has highlighted the enthusiastic reception given to its Gombe State governorship hopeful, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, during his recent homecoming as clear proof of rising public backing. At the same time, the opposition party cautioned Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and the ruling All Progressives Congress to steer clear of political violence and intimidation as the 2027 elections approach.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, the PDP thanked residents of Gombe State for what it described as an unprecedented show of love, solidarity and support for Pantami.
The party said the reception went beyond a political gathering, describing it as “a powerful demonstration of the people’s collective aspirations, a spontaneous expression of confidence and an unmistakable statement about the political direction they desire for their state.”
It added that the size of the crowd and the affection shown to Pantami were extraordinary, comparing the reception to the mass following and public affection enjoyed by the late President Muhammadu Buhari.
However, the PDP condemned reported attacks on citizens and its supporters during the event, including the destruction of vehicles and injuries to party members.
It described the incidents as “barbaric, undemocratic and completely unacceptable”, calling on security agencies to investigate and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
“No political ambition is worth the blood of any citizen,” the party said.
The PDP also cautioned Governor Yahaya and the APC against resorting to intimidation, threats or violence in response to what it described as the growing popularity of the opposition party and its candidates across the state.
It maintained that citizens must be allowed to exercise their democratic right to support candidates and political parties without fear of threats or coercion.
Addressing the governor, the party said: “The people of Gombe have spoken, and the time to prepare for an honourable SURRENDER is now.”
It further claimed that no amount of intimidation, sponsored violence, attacks or deployment of state power would prevent what it described as the APC’s defeat in the 2027 elections.
The opposition party urged its supporters to remain peaceful, united and focused despite alleged acts of provocation.
It also raised concerns about the management of Gombe State’s resources, insisting that the state’s commonwealth belongs to its people and should be managed with transparency, prudence and accountability.
The PDP said it was confident that under Pantami’s leadership, the state could experience a new phase of governance focused on accountability, infrastructure development, job creation, economic opportunities and the empowerment of residents.
It called on the people of Gombe to sustain the momentum generated by the homecoming and vote for Pantami and other PDP candidates in the 2027 elections.
“The people have spoken. The momentum is unmistakable. The change Gombe deserves is within reach,” the statement added.
What You Should Know
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is celebrating massive public support for its Gombe governorship candidate, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, while raising serious concerns over violent attacks and property destruction during his recent homecoming event.
- Positive Impact: Heightens civic awareness and encourages citizens to actively participate in political processes as alternative governance paths are discussed.
- Potential Concerns: Raises the risk of escalating political tensions, electoral violence, and intimidation against opposition supporters in Gombe State ahead of 2027.
