Dauda Lawal, the Governor of Zamfara State, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal crises within the opposition party.
The defection was confirmed on Monday in a statement released by the governor’s media aide, Nuhu Anka, who said the decision followed extensive consultations with political leaders, elders and supporters across the state.
According to the statement, the governor took the decision after carefully considering the political situation in the state and the need to ensure stability, progress and sustainable development.
“The Government and PDP family of Zamfara State wish to formally inform the general public of an important political development following extensive consultations with stakeholders, political leaders, elders, and supporters across the state,” the statement read.
It added that Lawal decided to leave the PDP in the overriding interest of stability and development in Zamfara State.
Anka explained that the governor’s decision was largely influenced by the prolonged internal crisis and leadership disagreements within the PDP at both national and state levels.
“These challenges have created uncertainty and distractions capable of hindering effective governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people of Zamfara State,” he said.
The governor’s aide stressed that the move would enable the state government to work more closely with the Federal Government in tackling security challenges and accelerating development in the North-West state.
He disclosed that the final decision was reached during a meeting held at the Government House in Gusau, attended by top government officials and key political stakeholders under the leadership of the deputy governor.
Lawal also expressed appreciation to members of the PDP for their support over the years, noting that the prevailing political realities made the decision necessary.
“By joining the APC, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening unity, improving security, accelerating development and ensuring Zamfara State benefits fully from stronger collaboration with the Federal Government,” the statement added.
The defection comes shortly after a judgment by the Court of Appeal upheld an earlier ruling restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising the outcome of the PDP national convention held in Ibadan.
Lawal is among the governors widely expected to seek re-election in the 2027 general elections. His move to the APC increases the number of governors under the ruling party to 31 nationwide.