GOMBE, Nigeria — A female governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe State, Hon. Monica Yahaya Kaltho, has withdrawn from a court case challenging the party’s governorship primary and declared her full support for the party’s candidate, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami.
Kaltho was among four PDP governorship aspirants who had opposed the primary process and warned that Pantami’s entry into the party could expose the PDP to litigation. However, in a statement issued on Saturday, she announced her decision to discontinue the legal action and pledged to work for Pantami’s victory in the 2027 governorship election.
According to the statement signed by Hussaini Ali Muhammed, media aide to former Gombe State Governor Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, Kaltho’s decision followed consultations and an appeal from Dankwambo, who advised her to withdraw in the interest of party unity and progress.
“I acted after consultations and in respect of the appeal made by the leader of the PDP in Gombe State, H.E. Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, who advised me to withdraw from the legal action in the interest of party unity and progress,” Kaltho said.
She described Dankwambo as “a father and a leader whose counsel I deeply value,” adding that the unity of the PDP and the development of Gombe State are more important than personal ambition.
Kaltho urged party members to remain committed to the collective goal of ensuring PDP success in 2027 and delivering quality leadership to the people of Gombe State.
Reacting to the development, Pantami commended Kaltho for her maturity, patriotism, and commitment to strengthening the party. He assured her that she remains an important stakeholder in the PDP and pledged that all members would be carried along in efforts to build a stronger party ahead of the 2027 election.
As a mark of appreciation, Pantami personally visited Kaltho at her residence to thank her for withdrawing the suit and supporting the party’s collective interest. He described her decision as a significant sacrifice made in the interest of the PDP and the people of Gombe State.
The withdrawal is expected to strengthen reconciliation efforts within the Gombe PDP, as the party consolidates support ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
