Former Governorship Candidate Defects to PDP

A former governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Gombe State, Kelmi Lazarus, has left the party for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declaring his support for the PDP governorship candidate, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, ahead of the next governorship election.

Lazarus was the SDP flag bearer in the 2023 governorship election in Gombe State. He also served as the party’s state chairman and previously held the position of General Manager of Radio Gombe.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Lazarus said his decision followed wide consultations with his political associates and supporters across the state. He explained that after weighing different options, he decided that joining the PDP was the best step.

According to him, his support for Pantami is based on his belief that the former minister has the ability, experience and leadership qualities needed to move Gombe State forward. He said Pantami has the capacity to provide good governance and drive development across the state.

Lazarus also described the PDP candidate as the strongest contender in the governorship race. He called on his supporters and other residents of Gombe State to support the PDP in the coming election, saying the move would serve the interest of the state and promote growth and development.

The Gombe State chapter of the PDP welcomed Lazarus into the party, describing his defection as a positive development for its campaign ahead of the governorship poll.

The party said the decision by the former SDP governorship candidate to join its ranks showed that more political leaders and stakeholders now have confidence in both Pantami and the PDP’s plans for the state.

The PDP also assured Lazarus and those who joined the party with him that they would be given equal opportunities to take part in its activities and contribute to its goal of building what it described as a more united, peaceful and prosperous Gombe State.