Former Social Democratic Party governorship candidate in Gombe State, Kelmi Lazarus, has formally joined the Peoples Democratic Party, throwing his weight behind the party’s governorship flagbearer, Professor Isa Ali Pantami.
Lazarus, who represented the SDP in the 2023 governorship election and previously served as the party’s state chairman as well as General Manager of Radio Gombe, announced his defection in a statement on Wednesday.
He said the move came after wide-ranging consultations with his supporters and was driven by his belief that Pantami has the qualities needed to move Gombe 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.
He appealed to his supporters and other residents of the state to rally behind the PDP candidate, describing Pantami as the leading choice among those seeking to govern the state.
“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,” Lazarus added.
The Gombe State chapter of the PDP welcomed the former SDP candidate into its ranks, describing his decision as a significant boost that reflects increasing support for the party ahead of the governorship election.
The party also assured Lazarus and his supporters of equal participation in its activities as it works towards building what it described as “a more united, peaceful and prosperous Gombe State.”