Zamfara Governor Lawal dumps PDP for APC

Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal party crises and the need to prioritise development and stability in Zamfara State.

The announcement was made in a statement released by the Zamfara State Government, which said the decision followed wide consultations with political leaders, elders, stakeholders, and supporters across the state.

According to the statement, the move was taken after careful deliberations on the political situation within the PDP and its potential impact on governance in the state.

“After careful consideration, and in the over riding interest of stability, progress, and the sustainable development of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, has decided to formally defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).”

The state government explained that the governor’s decision came after extensive consultations with key political actors and supporters throughout the state.

The statement pointed to ongoing disputes within the PDP at both the national and state levels as a major factor behind the defection.

“This decision was reached after wide consultations with political stakeholders and supporters, particularly in view of the prolonged internal crisis, leadership disagreements, and unresolved structural challenges within the PDP at both the national and state levels.”

According to the government, these challenges have created uncertainty and distractions that could undermine effective governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to residents of the state.

Governor Lawal emphasised that his administration remains focused on peace, security, and development across Zamfara.

“The Governor emphasized that his primary responsibility remains the peace, security, and development of Zamfara State. Consequently, it became necessary to align with a political platform that provides greater unity, stability, and stronger cooperation with the Federal Government for the benefit of the people.”

Officials said the final meeting leading to the decision took place at the Government House in Gusau and was coordinated by the deputy governor alongside senior government officials and key political stakeholders.

Despite leaving the party, the governor expressed appreciation to members and supporters of the PDP for their backing over the years.

“His Excellency expressed deep appreciation to members and supporters of the PDP for their cooperation and support over the years. However, he noted that the present political realities and the unresolved crisis within the party have made it necessary to take this bold step in the interest of good governance and the future of Zamfara State.”

The state government urged residents and political actors to remain peaceful as the state transitions into what officials described as a new political phase.

“The Government therefore calls on all citizens, political leaders, party supporters, and stakeholders to remain calm, peaceful, and supportive as the state enters this new political phase aimed at promoting unity, stability, and development.”

By joining the APC, the governor said his administration aims to strengthen unity, improve security, accelerate development, and deepen collaboration with the Federal Government for the benefit of Zamfara residents.