By Gift ChapiOdekina

The Progressives Forum of Gombe South has lashed out at an anonymous group, “Concerned Citizens of Gombe South,” over its criticism of a federal lawmaker’s recent defection, describing the move as “political opportunism” driven by fear of his growing influence.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the forum questioned the credibility of the group, noting that its members failed to identify themselves in an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“We wonder why a supposedly concerned group will not be bold enough to list their names as signatories.This is sufficient proof that they are simply being opportunistically mischievous,” the statement read.

The forum argued that the anonymity of the group undermines its claims, adding, “They would rather hide their identities behind an unknown group that guarantees them the anonymity that cowards always covet.”

Defending the lawmaker’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), the group dismissed allegations that the move was driven by personal ambition.

“If Hon. Ali Isa JC is such a lightweight politician, their convictions should have given them the strength of character to reveal their true identities,” it said.

The forum further alleged that those behind the criticism were “failed politicians” threatened by the lawmaker’s record and electoral strength.

“It has become easy for us to surmise that the group is made up of failed politicians… who are still afraid that he will defeat them again in the forthcoming elections,” the statement added.

Highlighting the impact of the defection, the group described it as a turning point for the APC in the zone.

“What we saw what can be truly defined as the rebirth and strengthening of the APC in Gombe South,” it said, citing support provided to party officials at various levels.

On performance, the forum pointed to infrastructure and social development projects across Balanga/Billiri Federal Constituency, insisting the lawmaker joined the APC as “an asset, not a liability.”

“It is extremely difficult to find a politician in Gombe South with his impeccable record of achievements… If they have such a politician, let them present him,” it challenged.

The group also referenced the establishment of a Federal Orthopaedic Hospital in Billiri as a major legislative milestone.

“Are they now pretending to be unaware of the recent establishment of a Federal Orthopaedic Hospital in Billiri birthed by his determined efforts?” it queried.

Dismissing claims that the defection was aimed at securing an automatic ticket for the 2027 elections, the forum said there was no evidence to support such allegations.

“Instead of resorting to cheap, worn-out strategies of blackmail and fear-mongering, they should compete based on their own records,” it stated.

The forum also defended the role of party leaders in facilitating the defection, describing criticisms against them as baseless.

“It is childish as much as it is ridiculous to blackmail party leaders for their patriotic role in welcoming him into the APC,” the statement said.

Calling for unity, the group urged stakeholders to work together for the development of Gombe South.
“They should join hands to strengthen the APC in Gombe South… unless they have a different agenda from development,” it added.