The Gombe State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed claims by the All Progressives Congress (APC) that its governorship candidate, Professor Isa Ali Pantami, is still a member of the ruling party.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the PDP State Public Relations Officer, Abdulkadir Ahmad, the party described the APC’s allegation as false and a misrepresentation of both the Electoral Act and the PDP constitution.
The PDP was responding to earlier remarks from the APC in Gombe State, which questioned Pantami’s eligibility, alleging he did not formally resign from the party before joining and securing the PDP governorship ticket.
However, the PDP maintained that Pantami is a fully registered member of the party, stating that all required legal and constitutional procedures for his defection were properly followed.
The party further claimed it has documented evidence of Pantami’s resignation from the APC, which was acknowledged by his ward leadership.
According to the statement, the APC ward chairman in Pantami’s area personally confirmed receipt of his resignation letter on May 19, 2026, and even shared evidence publicly.
The PDP accused the APC of repeatedly raising the same issue despite what it described as clear and verifiable documentation, calling the claims politically motivated distractions.
It also urged Nigerians to disregard what it termed misleading statements from the APC in Gombe State, insisting that the matter of Pantami’s party membership has already been settled.
The party advised the APC to focus on strengthening its internal structures ahead of the next general elections rather than engaging in disputes over resolved issues.
Citing constitutional provisions, the PDP emphasized that Nigerians have the right to freedom of association, including the choice to join or leave political parties.
It added that if the APC has concerns about its internal processes or candidates, it should address them internally rather than attempting to challenge Pantami’s political status.
The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to issue-based politics and pledged to continue offering what it described as credible leadership and development-focused governance to the people of Gombe State.
