Governor Dauda Lawal has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing prolonged internal crises and leadership disagreements within his former party.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Monday by Nuhu Salihu Anka, who said the decision followed extensive consultations with political leaders, elders, and supporters across Zamfara State.
According to the statement, the move was taken in the interest of the state’s stability, progress, and sustainable development.
Lawal explained that the PDP has been grappling with persistent internal challenges at both national and state levels, including leadership disputes and structural problems that have created uncertainty within the party.
He noted that the lingering issues had become a distraction that could hinder effective governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people.
The governor said his foremost responsibility remains the peace, security, and development of Zamfara State, adding that aligning with a political platform that offers greater unity and cooperation with the Federal Government became necessary.
The statement added that the final deliberations leading to the decision took place at the Government House in Gusau. The meeting was coordinated by the deputy governor and attended by senior government officials and key political stakeholders.
Lawal expressed appreciation to members and supporters of the PDP for their support over the years but said prevailing political realities and unresolved internal challenges within the party made the decision inevitable.
By joining the APC, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening unity, improving security, accelerating development, and ensuring that Zamfara benefits from closer collaboration with the Federal Government.
The state government also called on residents, political leaders, and stakeholders to remain calm and support the transition as Zamfara enters what it described as a new political phase aimed at promoting unity, stability, and development.
