Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has explained that the lingering internal crisis and legal disputes within the Peoples Democratic Party forced his decision to defect to the All Progressives Congress.
The governor’s defection was formally announced on Monday by the state Deputy Governor, Mani Mummuni, after a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House in Gusau.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, described the move as a strategic decision taken in the best interest of the state and its people.
According to the statement, the governor’s decision to leave the PDP came after wide consultations with political stakeholders across Zamfara, particularly in view of the unresolved legal battles and leadership disputes currently affecting the party.
Idris said the governor’s switch to the ruling APC followed a collective resolution reached during the stakeholders’ meeting on Monday.
“Yesterday (Monday), Governor Dauda Lawal officially decamped from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a decision reached and endorsed by all relevant stakeholders in Zamfara State,” the statement read.
He added that the governor had remained loyal to the PDP for a long time and made significant efforts to restore unity within the party before ultimately deciding to leave.
According to Idris, Lawal had worked tirelessly to reconcile the party’s warring factions and strengthen its internal cohesion in preparation for future elections.
“Governor Dauda Lawal has demonstrated a strong commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party. He has worked diligently to facilitate reconciliation among the party’s factions, ensuring it remains unified and capable of presenting candidates in forthcoming elections,” he stated.
Political observers say the governor’s defection could reshape the political landscape in Zamfara State ahead of future electoral contests, as it signals a potential realignment of forces within the state’s political structure.
Lawal’s move also reflects the growing impact of internal divisions within the PDP, which have led to concerns among party leaders and members across several states.
