By Divine Sam

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released an updated final list of governorship candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections, bringing fresh developments in the political calculations in Kano and Gombe states.

In the latest update, former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, has been cleared and included as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for Gombe State.

However, the development has not been the same for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate in Kano State, Gwarzo, whose name remains missing from the commission’s final list.

INEC explained that his exclusion is linked to an existing court order, stressing that his candidacy cannot be recognised on the list until the order is vacated.

According to the commission, the latest adjustment followed a review of relevant court judgments and submissions received from political parties.

INEC further clarified that while Pantami’s inclusion came after all legal requirements were met, the Kano NDC candidate’s case remains before the court.

The commission stated in its update: “INEC updates final governorship list: Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, PDP, now included for Gombe, Kano NDC’s Gwarzo still omitted under court order,” INEC said in its update.

The electoral body also disclosed that the updated final list would be made available on its official website and displayed at all its state offices.

With the 2027 elections drawing closer, the latest development underscores how legal battles and compliance with electoral regulations could shape the political fortunes of candidates long before voters head to the polls.