On Tuesday, a group of youths ignited tyres and erected a barricade on Jekadafari Road, close to the family home of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, in an alleged effort to prevent former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Prof. Isa Ali Pantami from entering Gombe town. The blockade briefly halted traffic before the minister’s motorcade forced its way through to a large rally organized by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
What triggered the roadblock?
Eyewitnesses reported that the youths stormed the busy thoroughfare, piled tyres across the carriageway and set them alight. The burning tyres produced thick black smoke that spread quickly through the densely populated Jekadafari neighbourhood, causing panic among motorists, commuters and nearby residents.
How long was traffic disrupted?
Vehicle movement on the road was halted for several minutes as drivers abandoned the route and sought alternative ways to reach their destinations. Traders and shop owners in the vicinity hurriedly closed their businesses, fearing the confrontation could escalate into a violent clash between rival political factions.
What happened to Pantami’s convoy?
Despite the obstruction, the minister’s motorcade – comprising hundreds of vehicles – managed to push through the smoke‑filled scene and continue toward the rally venue. Supporters in the convoy sang solidarity chants as they advanced, a moment described by onlookers as a display of defiance.
Were there any attacks on the convoy?
According to the correspondent, another group of youths armed with dangerous weapons smashed the windshields of several vehicles in the motorcade, heightening panic among supporters and other road users. Security personnel quickly intervened, extinguished the fire, and restored order, allowing traffic to resume its normal flow.
What did locals say about the incident?
Resident Sani Balarabe expressed his fear, stating, “We were just going about our normal business when we saw the youths blocking the road. Everybody was scared because we did not know what would happen next.”
Has anyone commented officially?
At the time of reporting, neither Prof. Pantami nor his aides had issued a statement regarding the alleged attack, and no official casualty figures had been released. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had also not commented, while the Gombe State Police Command was yet to provide a formal response. Local residents have appealed to political leaders to restrain their supporters and preserve the state’s reputation for peaceful coexistence.
The incident underscores the volatile nature of political gatherings in the region and highlights the need for heightened security measures during high‑profile events.