Kelmi Lazarus, a former governorship candidate from the Social Democratic Party in Gombe State, has switched to the Peoples Democratic Party, expressing his backing for the party’s governorship candidate, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, in anticipation of the upcoming election.
Lazarus, the SDP candidate for governor in the 2023 Gombe State election, is a past chairman of the party and previously held the position of General Manager at Radio Gombe.
Lazarus announced his choice in a statement on Wednesday, stating that he became part of the PDP following thorough discussions with his supporters.
He also conveyed trust in Pantami’s capacity to offer strong leadership for the state.
“I became a member of the Peoples Democratic Party following thoughtful reflection and discussions with my supporters.” “My choice is driven by my belief that Professor Isa Ali Pantami has the vision, skills, integrity, and leadership ability necessary to deliver meaningful governance and foster the progress of Gombe State,” he remarked.
He referred to Pantami as the best-qualified candidate in the contest and encouraged state residents to back the PDP for the sake of Gombe’s progress.
“Professor Pantami distinguishes himself as the most competent candidate in this competition.” Lazarus urged his supporters and the decent citizens of Gombe State to unite in support of the PDP for the mutual benefit of the state’s advancement and welfare.
In response to the development, the PDP’s Gombe State chapter characterized Lazarus’ defection as a significant enhancement to the party’s expanding support base, noting that it demonstrated a rise in confidence among political leaders and stakeholders regarding Pantami’s leadership and the party’s vision.
The party expressed its heartfelt welcome to the former governorship candidate and his followers, promising them equal chances to assist in achieving its aim of creating what it referred to as “a more united, peaceful and prosperous Gombe State.”
