…INEC Clearance of Professor Isa Ali Pantami Should Mark the Beginning of a Development-Oriented Political Conversation
By Peter Daniel Jatau
The atmosphere in Gombe State was filled with excitement and celebration following reports of the clearance of Professor Isa Ali Pantami by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to contest the 2027 governorship election.
For his supporters, the development represents an important milestone in their political journey and a moment of renewed hope. However, beyond the celebrations, prayers, political gatherings and expressions of solidarity, the people of Gombe State must begin to ask a more fundamental question: What kind of leadership and development agenda does Gombe need at this critical moment?
Rather than allowing political disagreements, personal attacks and unnecessary controversies to dominate public discussions, political actors should redirect their energy and resources towards addressing the challenges confronting ordinary citizens.
Gombe State, like many other states in Nigeria, faces pressing challenges, including youth unemployment, insecurity, poverty, hunger, inadequate healthcare facilities and the need for improved educational opportunities.
Our hospitals require adequate medical equipment, qualified personnel and modern facilities capable of delivering quality healthcare. It is unacceptable for citizens to continue struggling to access basic medical services when healthcare should be a priority in governance.
Similarly, the issue of youth unemployment deserves urgent attention. Thousands of young people possess the energy, creativity and potential to contribute meaningfully to society, yet many remain without employment opportunities.
This is where purposeful leadership must demonstrate its value.
Gombe needs an administration that can attract foreign direct investment, encourage local and international companies to establish businesses, promote industrial development and create sustainable employment opportunities for its growing population.
Education must also remain at the centre of the development agenda. Investment in schools, teachers, vocational training, technology and skills acquisition will prepare young people for a competitive future.
Women’s empowerment, support for small businesses, agricultural development and poverty reduction must equally receive serious attention.
Professor Isa Ali Pantami’s political ambition should therefore be subjected to constructive public discussion based on ideas, competence, vision and the capacity to deliver measurable development.
His supporters should use this period to communicate a clear development agenda to the people rather than concentrating their energy on attacking political opponents.
Democracy is not strengthened by intimidation, hostility or the suppression of opposing opinions. It is strengthened through healthy competition, respect for democratic institutions and the presentation of practical solutions to the problems of society.
The people of Gombe deserve more than political celebrations. They deserve functional hospitals, quality education, employment opportunities, improved security, better roads and an economy that gives hope to every household.
If Professor Pantami is given the opportunity to lead Gombe State, expectations will naturally be high. The people will want to see a government that translates promises into practical achievements.
THE REAL QUESTION IS NOT WHO CELEBRATES THE MOST, BUT WHO HAS THE VISION AND CAPACITY TO MOVE GOMBE STATE FORWARD.
As the 2027 political season approaches, all stakeholders should remember that political positions are temporary, but the legacy of good governance remains.
May the political atmosphere in Gombe be guided by peace, tolerance, constructive engagement and the collective interest of the people.
Gombe deserves development. Gombe deserves opportunity. Gombe deserves leadership that puts the people first.
