Ex-SDP governorship candidate defects to PDP, endorses Pantami for Gombe governor

A former governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, in Gombe State, Kelmi Lazarus, has defected to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, declaring support for the party’s governorship candidate, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.

Mr Lazarus, who flew the SDP flag in the 2023 governorship election and previously served as the party’s state chairman, announced his defection in a statement on Wednesday, saying the decision followed extensive consultations with his supporters.

The former General Manager of Radio Gombe said he was convinced that Pantami possesses the leadership qualities required to move the state forward.

“I joined the Peoples Democratic Party after careful consideration and consultation with my supporters. My decision is based on my conviction that Professor Isa Ali Pantami possesses the vision, competence, integrity and leadership capacity required to provide purposeful governance and advance the development of Gombe State,” he said.

Mr Lazarus described the PDP candidate as the most qualified contender in the governorship race and urged his supporters and the people of Gombe State to back Pantami in the interest of the state’s development.

“Professor Pantami stands out as the most qualified candidate in this race. I therefore call on my supporters and the good people of Gombe State to rally behind the PDP in our collective interest for the progress and prosperity of the state,” he added.

Reacting to the development, the Gombe State chapter of the PDP described Lazarus’ defection as a significant boost to the party’s growing support base.

The party said the decision reflected increasing confidence among political leaders and stakeholders in Pantami’s leadership and the PDP’s vision for the state.

The PDP welcomed Lazarus and his supporters into its fold, assuring them of equal opportunities to contribute to its efforts to build what it described as “a more united, peaceful and prosperous Gombe State.”