Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has rejected a purported consensus arrangement by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gombe State, describing the process as unlawful and lacking inclusivity.

Pantami’s position was conveyed in a statement issued on Sunday by Suleiman Mohammed on behalf of supporters under the Pantamiyya Movement. The statement said the former minister became aware of the development while in Abuja, characterising the outcome as a “coronation” presented as consensus for elective positions in the state.

The group argued that the process did not meet legal requirements, stressing that a valid consensus can only be achieved with the consent of all aspirants who have obtained and completed nomination forms. It maintained that any arrangement excluding such participation contravenes established procedures.

Citing provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, the statement noted that consensus candidacy requires written agreement by all cleared aspirants to step down. It added that where this condition is not met, political parties are mandated to adopt direct primaries, allowing registered members to vote for their preferred candidates.

Pantami’s supporters further alleged that the arrangement violated party guidelines and directives from national leadership, urging stakeholders to adhere to due process in the selection of candidates.

While calling for calm among supporters, the group said preparations were underway for possible direct primaries, adding that its legal team was already addressing concerns, including issues related to the party’s membership register in the state.