The Peoples Democratic Party has expressed confidence in its chances of winning the 2027 Gombe State governorship election, following a large turnout of supporters who welcomed its candidate, Professor Isa Pantami, during his homecoming.
Titiansloaded reports that the opposition party said the reception reflected increasing public interest in Pantami’s candidacy and urged Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya to prepare for a possible change of government in the state.
The PDP made its position known in a statement released in Abuja on Thursday by its National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed.
According to the party, the turnout of residents, display of solidarity and excitement surrounding Pantami’s return showed that many people in Gombe were seeking a different political direction.
Mohammed said the gathering went beyond an ordinary political event, describing it as an indication of the support Pantami was attracting ahead of the next governorship election.
He compared the enthusiasm displayed by residents to the mass public following previously associated with former President Muhammadu Buhari, arguing that Pantami had established a strong connection with the people.
However, the PDP raised concerns over alleged violence during the homecoming, claiming that some residents and party supporters were attacked, vehicles were damaged and individuals sustained injuries.
The party condemned the reported incidents and called on security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible.
Mohammed maintained that political disagreements should not result in attacks on citizens, insisting that nobody should suffer violence because of their preferred candidate or political affiliation.
He also warned against attempts to discourage opposition supporters through threats, intimidation and other forms of political pressure.
According to him, residents must be allowed to express their political preferences without fear, adding that democratic participation should be determined by voters rather than coercion.
The PDP spokesperson further insisted that alleged intimidation and violence would not weaken the party’s determination to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress in 2027.
He said the reception organised for Pantami had strengthened the party’s belief that voters in Gombe were increasingly receptive to its governorship ambition.
Mohammed also expressed optimism that a PDP government under Pantami would prioritise accountability, responsible management of public resources, infrastructure development and employment opportunities.
He appealed to party members and residents to maintain peace, remain united and avoid actions capable of escalating political tensions.
The party urged supporters to sustain their enthusiasm beyond the homecoming event and demonstrate their support through the ballot by voting for Pantami and other PDP candidates in the 2027 general elections.
