A human rights advocacy group, Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), has called for the cancellation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship consensus arrangement in Gombe State, describing the process as undemocratic and legally flawed.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the group’s Executive Director criticised the exercise, alleging that it excluded a key aspirant, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, thereby undermining fairness and due process.
MURIC described the consensus as a “kangaroo arrangement” and “an exercise in futility,” insisting that all aspirants must be given equal opportunity to participate in the selection process.
According to the group, the reported consensus was conducted without the knowledge or involvement of Pantami, which it said violates democratic principles and provisions of Nigeria’s electoral framework. It cited the Electoral Act 2026, noting that a valid consensus must involve all aspirants who have purchased and submitted nomination forms.
The organisation further argued that the process could deepen divisions within the party, pointing out that both the outgoing governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, and the reported consensus candidate hail from the same ward—an arrangement it warned could trigger protest votes across other parts of the state.
MURIC also questioned the party’s choice of candidate, alleging inconsistency in party loyalty, while contrasting it with Pantami’s longstanding affiliation and “unshaken loyalty” to the APC.
The group maintained that any consensus lacking the written consent of all cleared aspirants contravenes due process and should be deemed invalid. It stressed that where consensus fails, the party is expected to conduct a direct primary.
In addition, MURIC framed the exclusion of aspirants as a violation of constitutional rights, referencing provisions of the 1999 Constitution which guarantee the right to vote and be voted for.
The group urged the APC leadership in Gombe State to reconsider its position and support Pantami’s gubernatorial ambition, citing his popularity and support base.
WHO, Norway Deepen Partnership to Boost Nigeria’s Health Systems, Tackle Immunisation Gaps
It also appealed to Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure that due process and the rule of law are upheld within the party.
MURIC ending with demanding the immediate annulment of the consensus exercise and called for a transparent and inclusive process in selecting the party’s governorship candidate in Gombe State.
About The Author
