Gombe PDP female gov aspirant withdraws lawsuit, backs Pantami

Monica Yahaya Kaltho, a former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant in Gombe State, has officially withdrawn from a lawsuit challenging the party's internal selection process for the 2027 gubernatorial election. In a statement released on Saturday, Kaltho declared her support for Prof. Isa-Ali Pantami, the PDP’s chosen candidate for governor, marking a pivotal moment in the political landscape of the state. Kaltho, who was the sole female contender in the PDP’s governorship race, announced her decision following consultations with key party leaders. Her withdrawal came in response to an appeal by Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, the current leader of the PDP in Gombe State and former governor of the state. Dankwambo had urged her to step back from the legal challenge in order to promote unity within the party and ensure its strength heading into the upcoming elections. In her statement, Kaltho emphasized her commitment to the broader interests of the PDP and the people of Gombe State. “I acted after consultations and in respect of the appeal made by the leader of the PDP in Gombe State, His Excellency Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, who advised me to withdraw from the legal action in the interest of party unity and progress,” she said. Kaltho described Dankwambo as “a father and a leader whose counsel I deeply value.” She further noted that the unity of the PDP and the development of Gombe State were more important than personal ambitions. “Every member of the party should remain committed to the collective goal of ensuring PDP’s success in 2027 and delivering quality leadership to the people of Gombe State,” she added. Prof. Isa-Ali Pantami, who was selected as the PDP’s governorship candidate through an affirmation process, expressed his appreciation for Kaltho’s decision. He called her choice a demonstration of maturity and dedication to the party’s cause. “I sincerely appreciate Hon. Monica Yahaya Kaltho for her maturity, patriotism and commitment to the unity of our great party,” Pantami stated. “She remains an important stakeholder in the journey ahead, and everyone will be carried along as we work together to build a stronger PDP and a better Gombe State.” As part of ongoing reconciliation efforts within the party, Pantami visited Kaltho at her residence to personally thank her for withdrawing from the lawsuit. During the meeting, he reiterated his pledge to collaborate with all stakeholders in preparing for the 2027 election. The visit underscored the administration’s commitment to fostering cohesion among members and ensuring a unified front in the electoral campaign. This development comes amid heightened anticipation for the 2027 gubernatorial elections, which are expected to shape the political trajectory of Gombe State for years to come. With Kaltho’s withdrawal and her endorsement of Pantami, the PDP appears to be taking steps toward consolidating its internal dynamics and presenting a united candidacy to voters. As preparations for the election intensify, the focus will likely shift towards mobilizing support and addressing the diverse concerns of the electorate.