The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the reception accorded its Gombe State governorship candidate, Prof. Isa Pantami, as overwhelming, predicting APC’s defeat in 2027.
The party advised Gov. Inuwa Yahaya to prepare for defeat, saying the reception demonstrated growing public support for its candidate.
The PDP stated this in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, on Thursday in Abuja.
Mohammed expressed gratitude to Gombe residents for the unprecedented show of love, solidarity and support during Pantami’s homecoming. “What Gombe witnessed today was more than a political reception.
“It was a powerful demonstration of the people’s collective aspirations and an unmistakable statement about their preferred political direction,” he said. Mohammed described the crowd, excitement and affection displayed by residents as extraordinary.
He said the reception was comparable to the historic mass following and public affection enjoyed by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
“It was a moment that clearly demonstrated that Pantami has struck a powerful chord with the people of Gombe,” he added.
However, Mohammed condemned alleged attacks on residents and PDP supporters, including vehicle destruction and injuries sustained by party supporters.
He described the incidents as barbaric, undemocratic and unacceptable, urging security agencies to investigate and prosecute those responsible. “No political ambition is worth the blood of any citizen,” he said.
Mohammed cautioned against intimidation, threats and violence in response to the PDP’s growing popularity across the state.
He insisted that residents must not be threatened or silenced over their political choices. “Democracy must be guided by the will of the people, not by coercion or political desperation,” he said.
Mohammed declared that intimidation, sponsored violence and abuse of state power would not prevent the APC’s defeat in 2027.
“The overwhelming reception for Professor Pantami and the PDP has demonstrated that the appetite for change in Gombe is real and growing,” he said. He urged PDP supporters and residents to remain peaceful, united and focused despite alleged provocations.
Mohammed expressed confidence that Pantami’s leadership would usher in accountable governance, prudent resource management, infrastructure development and job creation.
He urged residents to sustain the momentum and translate their support into electoral victory by voting for Pantami and other PDP candidates in 2027.
