By Najeeb Sani
A coalition backing former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, has rejected allegations of property acquisition in Abuja and asked the group “Concerned Gombe Citizens” to present evidence or withdraw the claims.
The Concerned Gombe Citizens in a press conference urged EFCC and ICPC to probe the former minister who is currently contesting the governorship seat of the state under the opposition PDP in the 2027 election.
In a rejoinder signed by Ahijo Umar, secretary of the Coalition of Northeast Movement for Good Governance, it said accountability must be grounded in facts, evidence and the law, not in speculation, innuendo and political mischief.
The coalition faulted the call for EFCC and ICPC to probe the matter, noting that the petitioners admitted the claims “remain allegations” without providing specifics such as dates of acquisition, addresses, purchase prices or documentary proof.
“You cannot ask EFCC and ICPC to investigate a headline. Nigeria’s anti-graft laws require a prima facie case before public resources are deployed. Until such evidence is tabled, this is nothing but trial by media,” the statement reads.
The group highlighted Pantami’s record as DG of NITDA and Minister for over 3 years, stating that he complied with Code of Conduct Bureau requirements including asset declaration as mandated by the 1999 Constitution.
It argued that the burden of proof lies with the accusers to show both the value of the alleged properties and that they are disproportionate to Pantami’s “known and legitimate sources of income over 20 years of public service, academia and Islamic scholarship.”
The rejoinder noted that before public office, Pantami was a Professor of Cybersecurity, an author and a global Islamic scholar.
It added that he is entitled to income from legitimate private engagements and investments.
The coalition said Pantami “has nothing to hide” and will cooperate with EFCC or ICPC if required.
However, it rejected what it called attempts to “weaponise anti-corruption agencies for political persecution ahead of the Gombe 2027 elections.”
It urged that debate should focus on development issues in Gombe such as jobs, digital skills and infrastructure, and cited Pantami’s role in growing Nigeria’s digital economy from N1.49trn to over N10trn.
“No one is above the law. But no one should be below the law either,” the statement concluded.
