Governor Dauda Lawal has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing prolonged internal crises and the need to strengthen governance and development efforts in Zamfara State.
The development was confirmed in a statement issued by Nuhu Salihu Anka, who said the decision followed extensive consultations with political stakeholders, elders, and supporters across the state.
According to the statement, the governor’s defection was influenced by persistent leadership disagreements and unresolved structural challenges within the PDP at both national and state levels. The statement noted that the situation had created uncertainty and distractions that could hinder effective governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people of Zamfara State.
The governor emphasized that his foremost responsibility remains ensuring peace, security and development in the state, explaining that aligning with a political platform that offers greater unity and cooperation with the federal government became necessary.
“His primary responsibility remains the peace, security, and development of Zamfara State,” the statement said, adding that the decision to join the APC was taken in order to secure “greater unity, stability, and stronger cooperation with the Federal Government for the benefit of the people.”
Governor Lawal also expressed appreciation to members and supporters of the PDP for their support during his time in the party, acknowledging their contributions to his political journey.
“He expressed deep appreciation to members and supporters of the PDP for their cooperation and support over the years,” the statement said, while noting 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.”
By joining the APC, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening unity, improving security and accelerating development across the state. The statement added that the move would also enable Zamfara to benefit more fully from stronger collaboration with the federal government.
The governor called on citizens, political leaders and supporters across the state to remain calm and peaceful as the state enters what he described as a new political phase.
He urged stakeholders to remain supportive of the administration’s development agenda, saying the transition was aimed at promoting unity, stability and progress for the people of Zamfara.
