The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Gombe State has condemned what it described as derogatory remarks made by popular Hausa political musician, Dauda Kahutu Rarara, against the party’s governorship candidate, Prof. Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami.

The party stated that the comments, contained in a recent song released by the singer, were defamatory, disrespectful, and aimed at undermining the values of decency and healthy democratic engagement.

In a statement issued by its State Publicity Secretary, Abdulkadir Ahmad Dukku, the PDP maintained that political differences should never be used as a license to attack the character or reputation of public figures.

According to the statement, Prof. Pantami—an Islamic scholar and professor of international repute—deserves to be treated with dignity and respect regardless of political affiliation.

“The song is defamatory and a disgrace to the nation’s cultural values and democratic ideals. Public figures deserve respect, and their dignity should be protected,” the statement read.

The opposition party also accused Rarara of maintaining a history of making disparaging comments against prominent leaders, including late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Furthermore, the PDP alleged that the singer’s latest attack may have been triggered by the party’s earlier criticism of the Gombe State Government over its reported donation of cars, plots of land, and cash valued at over N200 million to the musician.

The PDP reiterated that it still considers the reported gifts an unjustifiable misuse of public resources.

While acknowledging the role of artists and entertainers in political mobilization and civic engagement, the party warned against using praise singers to launch personal attacks or inflame political tensions.

“It is unfortunate when artists allow themselves to be used to settle political scores instead of promoting peace, unity, and social cohesion,” the statement added.

The PDP called on political leaders across party lines to caution their supporters and associates against making statements capable of insulting opponents or deepening societal divisions.

The party stressed that campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections should be driven by issues, policies, and vision rather than insults and character assassination, urging all political actors to uphold civility and mutual respect. (Daily Trust)

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