Dauda Lawal, the governor of Zamfara State, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), his media aide, Nuhu Anka, confirmed on Monday.
According to Anka, Lawal’s decision followed extensive discussions with political leaders, elders, and party supporters across the state.
The aide said the move was motivated by the need to ensure political stability, development, and stronger collaboration with the Federal Government.
“The Government and PDP family of Zamfara State wish to formally notify the public of this significant political development, arrived at after consultations with stakeholders, political leaders, elders, and supporters across the state,” the statement read.
The governor reportedly decided to leave the PDP due to persistent internal crises, leadership disputes, and structural challenges within the party at both national and state levels—issues that, according to the statement, threatened effective governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people of Zamfara.
Lawal, however, reassured residents that his administration would remain focused on security and developmental priorities in the state. Anka added that aligning with the APC provides a platform for greater unity, stability, and stronger ties with the Federal Government.
The final decision came after a high-level meeting at the Government House in Gusau, attended by senior officials and key political stakeholders, coordinated by the deputy governor.
In his statement, Lawal expressed gratitude to members of the PDP for their support over the years, emphasizing that the political realities made the defection necessary. “By joining the APC, the governor reaffirms his commitment to promoting unity, security, development, and enhanced cooperation with the Federal Government for the benefit of Zamfara people,” it added.
Lawal, 60, is among governors expected to contest for re-election in the 2027 general elections.
His defection follows a recent Court of Appeal ruling that upheld an earlier order restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission from recognising the outcome of the PDP national convention in Ibadan, bringing the total number of APC governors nationwide to 31.
