The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially released the final list of candidates for the upcoming governorship election in Gombe State, scheduled for February 6, 2027. Notably absent from this list is Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, whose name was previously included in a provisional list published on August 29.

The final list comprises 16 candidates, highlighting a mix of political affiliations. Among those cleared by INEC are Bala Bello Tinka from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna representing the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Babayo Ardo Kumo of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC). Other candidates include Zubairu Mu’azu Halilu of the Labour Party, Lamela L. Silas from the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Ibrahim Jalo Abubakar of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), and Adamu Mohammed Ma’aji representing the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

The omission of Pantami's name has raised eyebrows, especially as it mirrors a similar situation in Ogun State, where the names of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate Ladi Adebutu and his running mate have also been excluded from INEC's final candidates list. This development indicates potential challenges within the political landscape as parties prepare for the upcoming elections.

As the political climate intensifies, the reasons behind Pantami's exclusion remain unclear, and further details are anticipated. The absence of such a prominent figure in the race could significantly impact the dynamics of the election in Gombe State. Political analysts and supporters alike will be keenly observing how this development unfolds in the lead-up to the February election.