A former governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party in Gombe State, Kelmi Lazarus, has joined the Peoples Democratic Party and declared his support for the party’s governorship candidate, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.
Lazarus announced his decision on Wednesday after leaving the SDP, saying the move followed consultations with his supporters.
Lazarus, who contested the 2023 Gombe governorship election on the platform of the SDP, previously served as the party’s state chairman. He also held the position of General Manager of Radio Gombe during his public service career.
Explaining his decision, he said he was convinced that Pantami has the experience and leadership qualities needed to move Gombe State forward. He added that his choice to join the PDP came after careful discussions with his political associates and supporters.
The former SDP candidate described Pantami as the best option in the governorship race and appealed to residents of Gombe State to support the PDP in the interest of the state’s growth and development. He also urged his followers to join him in backing the party’s governorship campaign.
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 election. The party said his decision reflected the growing confidence many political stakeholders have in Pantami’s leadership and the PDP’s agenda for the state.
The PDP assured Lazarus and those who joined him that they would enjoy equal opportunities within the party. It also stated that their contributions would be valued as it works toward building a more peaceful, united and prosperous Gombe State.