Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing the need for political stability and improved governance in the state.
The governor’s media aide, Nuhu Anka, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Monday, noting that the decision followed extensive consultations with political stakeholders, elders, and supporters across Zamfara State.
According to Anka, the governor said the move was taken after careful deliberation on the political situation within the PDP at both the national and state levels.
“After wide consultations with stakeholders and supporters across the state, Governor Dauda Lawal has decided to formally leave the Peoples Democratic Party and join the All Progressives Congress in the interest of stability, progress and sustainable development of Zamfara State,” the statement said.
Anka explained that persistent internal disputes and leadership disagreements within the PDP played a significant role in the governor’s decision to leave the party.
“The prolonged internal crisis and unresolved structural issues within the PDP at both the national and state levels have created uncertainty and distractions that could hinder effective governance,” he stated.
He added that the governor believes aligning with the ruling party at the federal level would strengthen cooperation and enhance development efforts in Zamfara.
“It became necessary for the governor to identify with a political platform that provides greater unity, stability and stronger collaboration with the Federal Government for the benefit of the people of Zamfara State,” Anka said.
The statement also revealed that the final decision was reached after a meeting held at the Government House in Gusau, which was attended by senior government officials and key political figures in the state.
Despite leaving the PDP, Lawal expressed appreciation to members of the party for their support over the years, noting that the prevailing political circumstances made the move unavoidable.
“He remains committed to promoting unity, improving security and accelerating development in Zamfara State,” the statement added.
With Lawal’s defection, the number of governors under the APC has increased to 31 nationwide. The Zamfara governor is also expected to seek re-election during the 2027 general elections.
