INEC clears Pantami, Gwarzo for 2027 elections, rejects Adebutu

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reportedly cleared former Communications Minister Isa Ali Pantami and Kano governorship candidate Abdulsalam Gwarzo to contest the 2027 elections, subject to pending court cases.

According to Daily Trust, the decision followed Thursday’s review of petitions submitted by political parties over omitted candidates. Blueprint Newspapers Limited+1

An INEC source disclosed that the commission received 69 petitions, with approximately 36 successful.

“We received a total of 69 petitions from political parties. Some of them were successful, I think about 36, and the rest didn’t succeed,” the source said.

However, the commission rejected the petition of Ogun State PDP governorship candidate Ladi Adebutu.

On Pantami’s candidacy, the source confirmed:

“Yes, Pantami has been cleared.”

The official explained that Gwarzo’s approval remained subject to judicial decisions.

“Because of the court case, the court may rule otherwise. So his approval is subject to whatever the court finally decides,” the source said.

INEC is expected to issue a statement.