Former Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in Gombe State, Kelmi Lazarus, has defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), throwing his weight behind the party’s governorship candidate, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.
Lazarus, who contested the 2023 governorship election on the SDP platform and previously served as the party’s state chairman, announced his defection in a statement on Wednesday, saying the decision was reached after extensive consultations with his supporters.
The former General Manager of Radio Gombe said he joined the PDP because he believes Pantami has the experience, integrity and leadership required to drive the state’s development.
He said his decision was based on the conviction that the PDP candidate possesses the vision and competence needed to provide effective governance and deliver meaningful progress for the people of Gombe State.
Lazarus described Pantami as the strongest candidate in the governorship race and urged his supporters, as well as other residents of the state, to support the PDP in the interest of Gombe’s growth and prosperity.
Responding to the development, the Gombe State chapter of the PDP said the defection had further strengthened the party ahead of the election.
The party noted that Lazarus’ decision reflected the growing confidence of political leaders and stakeholders in Pantami’s leadership and the PDP’s agenda for the state.
The PDP also welcomed Lazarus and his supporters into its fold, assuring them of equal opportunities to contribute to the party’s vision of building a more peaceful, united and prosperous Gombe State.