Breaking Development
Dauda Lawal, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as of March 9, 2026. This significant political shift was confirmed by the governor’s media aide, Nuhu Anka, during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House in Gusau.
Immediate Circumstances
The decision to switch parties followed extensive consultations with political stakeholders in Zamfara State. Anka stated, “After careful consideration, and in the overriding interest of stability, progress, and the sustainable development of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal has decided to formally defect from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.” This move comes amid internal challenges faced by the PDP, which have reportedly deepened over time.
Lawal’s defection increases the number of APC governors to 31, while the PDP is now left with only two governors. The announcement was made by the Deputy Governor, Malam Mani Mummuni, who emphasized that the decision was influenced by the “deepening internal crisis within the PDP” and the need for greater unity to address Zamfara’s pressing security and development challenges. Lawal is expected to seek re-election in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
Reactions and Statements
In his remarks, Anka highlighted that by joining the APC, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening unity, improving security, and accelerating development in Zamfara State. He noted that this move would enable the state to benefit fully from stronger collaboration with the Federal Government.
Lawal’s defection follows a Court of Appeal judgment that upheld a ruling restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission from recognizing the outcome of the PDP national convention, further complicating the political landscape for the party.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of this political shift, but it is clear that Lawal’s move marks a pivotal moment in Zamfara’s governance and party dynamics.