Chairman of Pantami Ward and ADC Candidate Switch to PDP

The Chairman of Pantami Ward in Gombe Local Government Area, Bala Ngalda, has stepped down and joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He is joined by the ward’s legal adviser, Babangida Gololo. They both support Isa Pantami, who has the PDP governorship ticket supported by Wike in the state.

They sent their resignations through separate letters dated 27 July to the Secretary of the APC in Pantami Ward.

In his letter, Mr Ngalda said he made this choice after talking with his family. He asked the APC leadership to respect his decision. He thanked the party at local, state, and national levels for the chance to serve. He also appreciated the Gombe State Government for its support during his time in office.

“I wish to use this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to the party at the local government, state, and national levels for the opportunity given to me to serve in this capacity,” Mr Ngalda wrote.

“I am equally grateful to the Gombe State Government at large for the support and cooperation extended throughout my tenure. Although I am stepping away from my position and membership, I will continue to hold the party and its ideals in high regard, and I wish it continued growth and success going forward.”

These latest changes come after Aliyu Turaki, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, also left his party. Mr Turaki has now joined the PDP and endorsed Mr Pantami ahead of the 2027 elections.

The former minister's shift from the ruling APC to the opposition PDP is a big move in Gombe politics. His joining the PDP and becoming the governorship candidate has led to many political changes.

As the current governor, Inuwa Yahaya, finishes his second term, these political shifts are likely to speed up across the North-east state.