Nafada camp rejects APC switch, backs Pantami

The political structure of a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Senator Bayero Nafada, which spans across the 11 Local Government Areas of Gombe State, has reportedly endorsed the governorship ambition of the Peoples Democratic Party, Professor Isa-Ali Pantami, ahead of the 2027 election.

The endorsement followed Senator Nafada’s defection from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress, with some of the leaders and members of his political structure declaring their decision to remain with the PDP.

The development was contained in a statement issued by the Gombe State PDP Media Team and obtained on Monday by our correspondent.

The delegation, led by the State Coordinator of the Bayero political structure, Hon. Malachi-Karfe Kanadi, alongside Hon. Umaru-Bajam Bayero and other leaders from the 11 LGAs, visited Professor Pantami to formally announce their support.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the leaders said they appreciated Senator Nafada’s past leadership but would not decamp with him to the APC.

“Although we have remained loyal to Senator Bayero Nafada throughout our political journey, we have decided to remain with the Peoples Democratic Party. Our loyalty is to the PDP, and we are fully committed to supporting Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami,” they stated.

They further pledged to mobilise their structures across the state to ensure the success of the PDP candidate in the 2027 governorship election.

Receiving the delegation, Professor Pantami expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in him and his capabilities to lead Gombe State, while also hailing them for their unflinching support.

He assured the team that his governance style would be an inclusive and partnership one.

“We are grateful for this show of confidence and support. You will be carried along as we work together to strengthen the party and achieve victory in the 2027 governorship election, In Sha Allah,” Pantami said.

The PDP governorship candidate was accompanied during the meeting by Hon. Jalo Ahmed Ganga, PDP North-East Zonal Auditor, who represented the party; Dr. Abubakar Saidu Yagi, former Director of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe (FTHG); Hon. Usman Gurama, former Secretary of the Gombe State Pilgrims Board; and Hon. Ahmed Abubakar Walama.