Politics
Group Urges Pantami to Pick Melah as Running Mate, Says Choice Will Define Leadership
Group Urges Pantami to Pick Melah as Running Mate, Says Choice Will Define Leadership
A group identifying itself as the Concerned Youth of Gombe South has appealed to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Gombe State, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, to consider Barrister Ibrahim Yusuf Melah as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election.
In an open letter addressed to the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, the group argued that the selection of a deputy governorship candidate would be a defining moment for Prof. Pantami’s leadership and political vision.
The group described the office of the deputy governor as more than a constitutional requirement, saying the choice of a running mate reflects a candidate’s judgment, priorities, and commitment to inclusive governance.
“A running mate is not a footnote. He is a mirror. The Deputy Governor is not a ceremonial ornament. He is the second heartbeat of an administration,” the letter stated.
According to the group, Barrister Melah possesses the qualities needed to complement Prof. Pantami’s leadership, citing his legal career, community service, and longstanding engagement with young people across Gombe South.
The group said Mr Melah had earned public respect through years of legal practice and mentorship rather than partisan politics.
“Barr. Melah is not a name to fill a space. He is a force to fill a gap. He is not loud. He is deep,” the group said.
It further claimed that Mr Melah’s record of supporting vulnerable people and promoting justice had made him a respected figure in the southern part of the state.
The group argued that a Pantami-Melah ticket would strengthen political inclusion by bridging generational and regional divides in Gombe State.
It also maintained that the choice of a running mate should go beyond electoral calculations and reflect the aspirations of ordinary citizens.
“Choose a man who merely balances a ticket, and you send a message: I am playing politics. Choose a man who balances your vision, and you send a message: I am building a legacy,” the letter added.
The youth group urged Prof. Pantami to select a running mate capable of inspiring confidence among young people, women and communities across the state.
It said such a decision would demonstrate a commitment to unity, integrity and effective governance.
The appeal comes amid growing public interest and political speculation over who the PDP governorship candidate will nominate as his running mate ahead of the 2027 general election.
Neither Prof. Pantami nor Barrister I.Y. Melah has publicly responded to the group’s appeal as of the time of filing this report.
