Nigeria, Feb. 8 -- While he has yet to officially declare his intention, the growing momentum among his supporters-coupled with his recent political activities-suggests that the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, is eyeing the Gombe State governorship to succeed Inuwa Yahaya.

In Nigerian politics, high-profile figures often delay official declarations to avoid becoming early targets for political opponents. By allowing youth groups and support coalitions to lead the narrative, a candidate can build momentum while maintaining plausible deniability. That appears to be the case for Mr Pantami in the North-eastern state.

The political atmosphere in Gombe is increasingly defined by the activities of his suppo...