A new political realignment is taking shape in Gombe State after former Gombe State Independent Electoral Commission commissioner Muhammad Ismail City, widely known as Katukan Akko, announced his departure from the All Progressives Congress and backed Professor Isa Ali Pantami.
Why the endorsement matters
City made the announcement during a meeting at Pantami’s office, where he also endorsed the former minister’s governorship aspiration on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party. The move is significant because City previously served as executive chairman of Akko Local Government Area and brings experience from both grassroots administration and electoral management.
A message focused on governance
In explaining the decision, City pointed to what he described as the need for integrity, administrative competence and a clearer development vision. He said Gombe needed leadership capable of improving security, education, agriculture and economic opportunity.
He also cited Pantami’s record at the National Information Technology Development Agency and the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy as evidence of experience in institutional reform and innovation.
What comes next in Gombe
The endorsement is expected to intensify consultations among political actors in the state ahead of the 2027 governorship contest. It may also prompt further conversations among stakeholders in Akko and other local government areas.
For readers following the wider political picture, explore our politics coverage, latest news updates and analysis and commentary.
Conclusion
City’s move adds a new voice to Gombe’s emerging political contest. Whether it develops into a broader alignment will depend on the response from local stakeholders and the pace of consultations in the months ahead.
