The Gombe State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has insisted that its governorship candidate, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, remains a legitimate member of the party.
The PDP described the APC’s position as misleading, stating that Pantami fulfilled all constitutional and legal requirements before defecting from the ruling party.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Gombe, PDP Publicity Secretary Abdulkadir Ahmad said the party had relevant documents confirming Pantami’s resignation from the APC, including an acknowledgment from his former ward chairman.
“The PDP wishes to categorically state that Professor Pantami is a bonafide member of the Peoples Democratic Party, having duly complied with all the constitutional and legal requirements for membership of our party,” Ahmad said.
He urged PDP members and residents of the state to disregard the APC’s claims regarding Pantami’s political status, insisting that the former minister’s resignation process was properly completed.
According to Ahmad, the APC chairman in Pantami Ward acknowledged receipt of Pantami’s resignation letter on May 19, 2026, adding that evidence of the acknowledgment had circulated publicly.
“The APC is repeatedly raising the issue despite clear and documented facts. It should be noted that this is the third time the APC has organised a press conference on the same issue,” he said.
The PDP spokesman accused the APC of focusing on distractions rather than preparing for the forthcoming general election.
He reaffirmed the PDP’s commitment to issue-based campaigns and good governance, adding that the constitution and Electoral Act guarantee every citizen the right to freedom of association and choice of political party.
The development follows earlier claims by the APC that Pantami remained a member of the party because it had not officially received his resignation letter.