Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Pantami, has raised concerns over what he described as intimidation and security threats encountered during his ongoing thank-you tour across Gombe State, alleging that attempts were made to frustrate his engagements with supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Pantami, who has remained an influential political figure in Gombe State since leaving office, said the incidents witnessed during the tour were aimed at discouraging his interactions with residents and limiting his freedom of movement within parts of the state.
The former minister disclosed the allegations while addressing supporters during one of the stops on the tour, insisting that the exercise was designed solely to appreciate citizens for their continued support rather than to launch any political campaign.
According to him, despite the reported challenges, the tour would continue peacefully and in accordance with the law.
Pantami alleged that security personnel were deployed in ways that created unnecessary tension around some of the venues scheduled for his engagements. He also claimed that supporters and organizers experienced intimidation before and during parts of the exercise.
While he did not provide detailed evidence publicly regarding the alleged intimidation, he called on security agencies to remain neutral and uphold their constitutional responsibility of protecting all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation.
“The role of security agencies is to safeguard lives and property and not to be seen as taking sides in political matters,” Pantami reportedly told supporters.
The former minister maintained that democracy thrives when citizens and political leaders are allowed to associate freely without fear of harassment or intimidation.
He emphasized that his appreciation tour was intended to strengthen relationships with communities across Gombe State, thanking residents for their support during his years in public service and encouraging greater participation in democratic processes.
Pantami also urged his supporters to remain calm and avoid actions capable of disrupting public peace despite what he described as provocation.
“We must remain peaceful and law-abiding. Violence should never be our response to intimidation,” he said.
The allegations have added another dimension to the growing political activities gradually unfolding ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, even though the official campaign period remains some distance away.
Across several states, political consultations, stakeholder meetings, endorsements and thank-you visits have increasingly become common as prominent politicians reposition themselves and maintain contact with their supporters.
Political observers note that while such consultations are permitted under Nigerian law, concerns often arise whenever allegations of political interference, intimidation or selective enforcement of security measures emerge.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies mentioned in relation to the allegations had not issued any official statement responding to Pantami’s claims.
Similarly, officials of the Gombe State Government had not publicly commented on the allegations.
The absence of immediate official reactions means the claims remain those of the former minister and have not been independently verified by Weng Global.
Analysts believe the allegations underscore the importance of professionalism among security agencies, particularly as political activities begin to intensify ahead of future elections.
Civil society organizations have consistently advocated for security institutions to maintain neutrality during political engagements, arguing that public confidence in elections depends significantly on the perception of fairness and equal treatment.
Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees citizens the rights to freedom of association, peaceful assembly and movement, provided such activities comply with existing laws and do not threaten public order.
Election experts have repeatedly stressed that all political actors should enjoy equal protection under the law regardless of party affiliation or political ambition.
Pantami’s political future has continued to attract attention since he left the Federal Executive Council. Although he has not formally declared any intention to contest any office in 2027, his consultations and statewide engagements have fueled speculation about his next political move.
Supporters view the thank-you tour as an opportunity for the former minister to reconnect with grassroots communities that supported him during his years in government.
Others, however, see the visits as part of broader political consultations that typically precede election cycles in Nigeria.
Political analysts caution against reading too much into ongoing consultations, noting that many politicians embark on similar engagements without eventually declaring for elective positions.
Nevertheless, they acknowledge that visibility, grassroots mobilization and sustained engagement often become important factors as elections approach.
Observers also argue that allegations involving political intimidation should always be investigated promptly to preserve public confidence in democratic institutions.
Transparent investigations, they say, can help establish facts, discourage misinformation and reassure citizens that security agencies remain committed to impartiality.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has repeatedly emphasized the importance of peaceful political participation and adherence to electoral laws throughout the election cycle.
Stakeholders continue to urge political leaders and their supporters to prioritize dialogue, tolerance and respect for democratic principles while avoiding inflammatory rhetoric capable of escalating tensions.
As consultations ahead of 2027 continue across Nigeria, analysts expect increased public scrutiny of political activities and the conduct of security institutions.
Whether Pantami’s allegations will trigger official investigations or formal responses from relevant authorities remains to be seen.
For now, the former minister insists that his appreciation tour will continue peacefully despite what he describes as attempts to intimidate him and his supporters.
Weng Global will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more verified information becomes available, including responses from security agencies and other relevant stakeholders.
Sources:
- Pantami’s public statements and media briefing.
- Multiple Nigerian media reports on the Gombe thank-you tour.
- Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (provisions on freedom of assembly and association).
