We want Melah as your running mate – Concerned Gombe youths tell guber candidate, Pantami

A group, Concerned Youth of Gombe South, has urged the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe State, Prof. Ali Isa Pantami, to choose Barr. I.Y. Melah as his running mate for the 2027 governorship election.

The group made the call in a statement issued and co-signed on Friday by Luka Elkana, Director of information and the group’s convener, Thomas Umar Likka. It congratulated Pantami on his emergence as the PDP governorship candidate for the 2027 election.

According to the group, Melah possesses the competence, integrity, administrative experience and public credibility needed to complement Pantami’s vision for Gombe State.

“As you prepare to make one of the most significant decisions of your political journey of selecting your running mate, we respectfully appeal that you give serious consideration to Barr. I.Y. Melah,” the statement said.

The group argued that the choice of a deputy governor goes beyond political considerations, saying it reflects the values and priorities of an incoming administration.

“The choice of a deputy governor is therefore not merely a political necessity; it is a statement of priorities, values, and the future a leader intends to build,” it stated.

It described Melah as an accomplished legal practitioner committed to justice, good governance and community development, adding that he has built a reputation through years of community engagement, youth mentorship and principled leadership.

The group further said Melah enjoys broad acceptance across political, ethnic, religious and generational divides, making him well-suited for the office of deputy governor.

“He possesses the rare ability to engage people across political, ethnic, religious, and generational lines. In an era where unity has become one of the greatest needs of our state, such a quality is invaluable,” the statement read.

The group also said Melah’s nomination would inspire confidence among young people, professionals, women and other stakeholders seeking greater inclusion in governance.

“Importantly, Barr. Melah represents the aspirations of a generation of young people who seek meaningful participation in governance, not as spectators but as partners in building a better future,” it said.

It added that a Pantami-Melah ticket would combine experience with youthful dynamism and broaden the appeal of the campaign.

“A Pantami–Melah ticket would symbolize a powerful partnership between experience and youthful dynamism. It would project inclusiveness, broaden the appeal of your campaign, energize the grassroots, and strengthen public confidence across the state,” the statement added.

The group called on political stakeholders, community leaders, youth groups, women and professionals across Gombe State to support the appeal for Melah’s emergence as Pantami’s running mate.