Pantami alleges harassment of supporters, raises alarm over security concerns in Gombe

Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has accused unnamed government officials in Gombe State of orchestrating intimidation against his supporters and plotting to undermine his ongoing political engagements across the state.

Pantami made the claims in a statement released on Tuesday after visiting Shongom, Kaltungo and Billiri local government areas as part of what he described as a thank-you tour to appreciate party leaders and supporters.

The former minister, who is the Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship candidate in Gombe State, alleged that the large turnout recorded during the visit had triggered anxiety among some political actors.

According to him, efforts were being made to obtain details of his movements for what he described as “evil plans” against him and his associates.

Pantami said the consultations were peaceful and aimed at strengthening ties with party stakeholders, insisting that he was merely exercising his constitutional right to move freely and interact with citizens across the state.

Citing Section 41(1) of the 1999 Constitution, he maintained that every Nigerian has the right to move freely and reside in any part of the country without hindrance.

He also announced that his tour would continue in Akko, Balanga and Yamaltu-Deba local government areas.

Beyond the alleged threats to his safety, Pantami accused some authorities of using government institutions to pressure and intimidate members of his political movement.

He claimed that some of his supporters had been threatened with arrest because of their association with him, describing such actions as a violation of their constitutional right to freedom of association.

The former minister further alleged that attempts were being made to prevent discussions surrounding purported financial gifts given to some Hausa musicians, claiming that efforts to suppress the information had failed after details allegedly emerged from within the group involved.

Calling for calm among his supporters, Pantami urged members of the Pantamiyya Movement not to succumb to intimidation or fear.

He also appealed to security agencies and other relevant authorities to investigate the alleged threats and ensure that no individual or group uses public institutions to harass political opponents.

To encourage his followers, Pantami quoted verses from both the Qur’an and the Bible, urging them to remain steadfast and hopeful despite what he described as political persecution.

The former minister, who served under the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has intensified grassroots consultations and political outreach across Gombe State in recent months, a move widely seen as part of preparations for the 2027 governorship contest.