By Abubakar Rabilu, Gombe
A former Senior Special Assistant to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, Barrister Aliyu Musa, has defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), along with about 1,800 members of the APC and Labour Party (LP) in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State.
The defectors were formally received into the PDP during a political gathering organised by the Awareness and Unity Programme in Billiri.
At the event, they also declared their support for the governorship ambition of Isa Ali Pantami, the former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy.
Speaking at the gathering, Musa said his decision to leave the APC was motivated by his confidence in Pantami’s leadership qualities, vision, and commitment to the development of Gombe State.
He described the former minister as a capable and experienced leader with the competence to drive sustainable development and improve the welfare of the people.
According to him, the growing support Pantami continues to attract across political and social divides reflects the trust many residents have in his ability to provide effective leadership for the state.
Musa urged the people of Billiri and other parts of Gombe State to support Pantami’s aspiration, describing it as an opportunity to promote inclusive governance and accelerate development.
While receiving the new members, PDP leaders in the area welcomed them into the party and assured them of equal opportunities and full participation in party activities.
They described the defection as a major boost to the PDP’s grassroots support base and expressed optimism that it would strengthen the party’s position ahead of future elections in the state.
Stakeholders and supporters at the gathering said the influx of members from the APC and LP further demonstrated the growing political momentum behind Pantami’s movement across Gombe State.
The event was attended by party officials, community leaders, youth and women groups, as well as supporters from various wards in Billiri Local Government Area.