Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), his media aide, Nuhu Anka, confirmed on Monday.
According to the statement, Lawal’s decision followed extensive consultations with political stakeholders, party leaders, elders, and supporters across the state.
“After careful consideration, and in the overriding interest of stability, progress, and sustainable development of Zamfara State, Governor Dauda Lawal has decided to formally defect from the PDP to the APC,” the statement read.
Anka explained that the move was influenced by prolonged internal crises, leadership disagreements, and unresolved structural challenges within the PDP at both national and state levels, which were creating uncertainty and distractions that could hinder effective governance.
Lawal emphasized that the defection would allow for greater unity, stability, and stronger cooperation with the Federal Government, particularly in addressing security challenges and accelerating development across the North-Western state.
The statement noted that the final deliberations were held at the Government House in Gusau, coordinated by the Deputy Governor alongside senior officials and key political stakeholders. Lawal also moved with his cabinet members, appointees, and elected local government chairmen.
Lawal, 60, is among the few governors seeking re-election in the 2027 general elections. His decision follows a Court of Appeal ruling upholding a High Court judgment barring the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from validating the PDP national convention held in Ibadan, amidst lingering leadership disputes within the party.
With Lawal’s defection, the number of APC governors in Nigeria rises to 31. Last week, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri also joined the ruling party, moving with his cabinet and local government chairmen in a similar decision aimed at fostering national unity and stronger alignment with the Federal Government.
