Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State. Photo credit: State House
The Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The development was confirmed on Monday in a statement issued by the governor’s media aide, Nuhu Anka. According to the statement, the decision followed extensive consultations with political leaders, elders, and supporters across the state.
Reason for the Defection
Anka explained that the governor’s decision was influenced by ongoing internal challenges within the PDP at both national and state levels. These include leadership disagreements and unresolved structural issues that have continued to create uncertainty within the party.
According to the statement, the governor believed that aligning with the APC would provide greater political stability and stronger cooperation with the Federal Government, which could help accelerate development in Zamfara State.
Stakeholder Consultations
The final decision was reportedly reached after a meeting held at the Government House in Gusau, involving senior government officials and key political stakeholders. The deliberations were coordinated by the Deputy Governor alongside other political leaders in the state.
Commitment to Security and Development
Despite the party switch, Governor Lawal reaffirmed his commitment to improving security, unity, and development in Zamfara State. He also thanked members of the PDP for their support over the years, describing the move as necessary due to prevailing political circumstances.
Political Implications
Governor Lawal is among the governors expected to seek re-election in the 2027 general elections. His defection comes shortly after a Court of Appeal ruling that restrained the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising the outcome of the PDP’s national convention held in Ibadan.
With this move, the number of governors under the APC has increased to 31 nationwide, further strengthening the ruling party’s position ahead of the next election cycle.
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