Another aspirant withdraws from Gombe APC governorship primary
Senator Said Ahmed Alkali has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary in Gombe State, citing violations of electoral laws and concerns over the credibility of the process.
The decision comes after another APC governorship aspirant, Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, also withdrew from the same primary over similar allegations of irregularities and lack of transparency.
Alkali’s withdrawal was announced in a statement issued on Tuesday, by Umar Alkali Jibrin, his media aide.
The APC governorship primary is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 2026, across the 36 states of the federation.
Alkali said his decision was informed by what he described as irregularities in recent APC National Assembly primaries in Gombe State.
He specifically referenced the House of Representatives and Senate primaries held on May 16 and May 18, 2026, in Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye, Billiri/Balanga, and Gombe Central Senatorial District.
He said the exercises did not comply with provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and the party’s guidelines.
According to him, there was no proper voting process, while key requirements such as election materials, officials, and observers were not adequately provided.
Alkali said the outcome of the primaries raised concerns about fairness and inclusion in the process.
He added that the situation affected confidence in the upcoming governorship primary.
The senator said his withdrawal was a difficult decision despite earlier preparations, including purchasing nomination forms and participating in screening exercises.
He reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and said he remains committed to supporting the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Alkali also called on the party leadership to cancel the disputed primaries in the affected areas and set up a committee to conduct fresh exercises.
He urged a process that complies with the Electoral Act and the party’s internal guidelines.
He thanked his supporters across Gombe State and urged them to remain calm and law-abiding.
The statement said Alkali remains committed to the development of Gombe State and the success of the APC.
