Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a major shift in the nation’s political landscape.
His media aide, Nuhu Anka, confirmed the move on Monday, noting that the transition followed “extensive consultations with stakeholders, political leaders, elders, and supporters across the state.”
The decision was reportedly driven by a desire for stability, with the official statement explaining that “after careful consideration, and in the over riding interest of stability, progress, and the sustainable development of Zamfara State,” the Governor chose to align with the ruling party.
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The move comes as the PDP faces significant internal turmoil, which the Governor’s camp cited as a primary motivator.
The statement highlighted that the defection was necessary due to the “prolonged internal crisis, leadership disagreements, and unresolved structural challenges within the PDP at both the national and state levels.”
These issues were described as “uncertainty and distractions that could hinder effective governance,” prompting Lawal to seek a “political platform that provides greater unity, stability, and stronger cooperation with the Federal Government.”
This decision was finalized during a meeting in Gusau where the Governor “reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening unity, improving security, accelerating development” through this new collaboration.
The timing of the defection is notable, following a Court of Appeal ruling that disadvantaged the PDP by barring the validation of its national convention.
Governor Lawal, who is 60 and seeking re-election in 2027, had reportedly been “awaiting the outcome of the Appeal Court ruling before making a final decision.”
His exit brings the total number of APC governors to 31, following a similar move by Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri last week.
In Adamawa, the shift was total, as Fintiri moved with his entire cabinet, while Speaker Wesley Bathiya and 14 other lawmakers also resigned from the PDP, emphasizing the “need for stronger alignment with the Federal Government to advance development priorities.”
